LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



□□001fl215fll 



THE BOOK 

OP 

COMMON WORSHIP 



PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE GENERAL 
ASSEMBLY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN 
CHURCH IN THE UNITED 
STATES OF AMERICA 



jfor ©oltmtari? Wist in ttie <Zi)mt\)t8 



PHILADELPHIA 
THE PRESBYTERIAN BOARD OF PUBLICATION 
AND SABBATH-SCHOOL WORK 
1906 



LIBRARY Of CONGRESS 
Two Cooies Received 

MAY 3 1906 

Cooyrigtit entry 

CLASS CX. xXc. No, 
/<+3?Z / 

COPY B. 



COPYRIGHT 1905, I906, BY THE TRUSTEES OF THE PRESBYTERIAN 
BOARD OF PUBLICATION AND SABBATH-SCHOOL WORK. 



PREFACE 



Among those Churches of the Lord Jesus Christ whi^i 
follow the Presbyterian rule and order, Liberty of Worship 
has been esteemed a most precious privilege and inherit- 
ance ; and while they have been both fearless and faithful 
to uphold it, against the intrusion of superstitious and 
burdensome ceremonies, they have also been diligent to 
seek, in the Public Services of Religion, the golden mean 
between a too great laxity and a tyrannical uniformity. 
Such things as are of Divine Institution they have ob- 
served in every Ordinance ; and other things they have en- 
deavoured to set forth ' ' according to the Rules of Christian 
Prudence, agreeable to the general Rules of the Word of 
God." 

Although the Books of Common Order, which were pre- 
pared for the Reformed Churches, at the beginning, in all 
countries, contained both prayers and other forms, yet 
were those books not so much imposed by way of inflexi- 
ble regulation, as they were offered and accepted as profit- 
able Aids to Worship; and they not only permitted but 
encouraged the exercise of Free Prayer. In a like spirit 
the Directory for Worship, adopted at a later time by the 
Church of Scotland, for the sake of unity with their breth- 
ren in the Church of England, so far from establishing an 
invariable form of Public Worship, expressly provided for 
a liberty of variation ; and it did not in any way prohibit 
the use of prepared orders and prayers, conformable to the 
general directions given therein. 

The same wise and blessed liberty is maintained in the 
Presbyterian Church in the United States of America even 
to this day. Accordingly it seemed good to the General 



iv PREFACE. 



Assembly of 1903, hearkening to the desire of many pastors 
and churches, to appoint a Committee of Ministers and 
Ruling Elders who should prepare, " in harmony with the 
Directory for Worship, a Book of Simple Forms and Ser- 
vices, proper and helpful for voluntary use in Presbyte- 
rian churches, in the celebration of the Sacraments, in 
Marriages and Funerals, and in the Conduct of Public 
Worship." This work has been continued, in faithful obe- 
dience, and in humble reliance on the Holy Spirit, through 
nearly three years of patient labour, and has been submit- 
ted, in its progress, to two successive Assemblies. The 
principles by which the work has been guided were ap- 
proved, and its completion was ordered. This having 
been done, so far as God enabled us, in the Book herewith 
presented, its publication is now " Authorized by the Gen- 
eral Assembly, for Voluntary Use in the Churches." 

This Book of Common Worship is, therefore, not to be 
taken in any wise as a liturgy imposed by authority. Nor is 
it a substitute for the Directory for Worship, but rather a 
supplement to it, wherein the instructions of the Standards 
are followed on all essential points, and aid is offered, to 
those who desire it, for the conduct of the Public Services 
of Religion with reverence and propriety. We have studied 
earnestly to embody the truths of our Holy Religion in the 
language of orderly devotion, to the end that by the Sac- 
raments, the stated Ordinances of the Lord's Day, and all 
the ordinary and occasional offices of the Church, men may 
be both instructed and confirmed in the faith of Jesus 
Christ. We have searched the Holy Scriptures, the usage 
of the Reformed Churches, and the devotional treasures 
of early Christianity, for the most noble, clear, and mov- 
ing expressions of the Spirit of Praise and Prayer ; and 
we have added to these ancient and venerable forms and 
models, such others as might serve, under the guidance of 
the same Spirit, to give a voice to the present needs, the 



PREFACE. 



v 



urgent desires, and the vital hopes of the Church living in 
these latter days and in the freedom of this Republic. 

Concerning the manner in which the different Services 
are ordered and arranged, and the best way in which they 
may be used to edification, a few suggestions are offered 
in the pages immediately following this Preface ; and 
throughout the Book, the careful reader will find that the 
words of guidance which precede the various parts of the 
services are designed, not only to mark their spiritual 
significance, but also to enable all the People to join in the 
Acts of Worship, that all things may be done decently and 
in order. The longer and more important rubrics are tran- 
scribed from the Directory for Worship of this Church, 
which disapproves alike of ' ' confining Ministers to set or 
fixed forms of prayer for public Worship," and of permit- 
ting that important service to be disgraced "by mean, ir- 
regular, or extravagant effusions." It is to be remembered, 
therefore, that the forms here offered are to be used only 
''if the Minister so please," as a help in Common Wor- 
ship, and not without a constant care and diligence, by 
"acquaintance with the Holy Scriptures, by meditation, 
by reading the best writers on the subject, and by a life of 
communion with God in secret, to endeavour to acquire 
both the spirit and the gift of Prayer." 

In the Treasury of Prayers many things have been gath- 
ered together which may be not only useful, from time to 
time, in the conduct of Public Services, but also profit- 
able for reading and study, for use in private devotion, 
and in that revival of Family Worship which is greatly 
needed in all our Churches. It is hoped, therefore, that 
the whole Book, having been prepared with a sincere wish 
to advance saving knowledge and true piety, may be re- 
ceived, studied, and used, by earnest members of this Church 
and by faithful Christians elsewhere, in the spirit of can- 
dour, simplicity, and brotherly love ; devoutly meditating 



PREFACE. 



upon the real meaning of the Christian faith, and endeav- 
ouring to adorn the Gospel of God our Saviour in all things. 
And to this end we. pray that the Holy Spirit will accom- 
pany and bless this Book with His ever-present Grace; 
that wherever it is used the hearts of men may be truly 
drawn and led to the Throne of the Divine Merc} r ; and 
that all the people may find comfort, joy, and strength as 
they unite in the Common Worship of God who is revealed 
in Jesus Christ our adorable Redeemer. 

THE ASSEMBLY'S COMMITTEE : 

Henry van Dyke, Chairman. 

Louis F. Benson, Nolan R. Best, 

John De Witt, John H. Converse, 

Charles Cuthbert Hall, Homer Lee, 

John Clark Hill, John E. Parsons, 

W. Beatty Jennlnos, Robert N. Willson, 

James D. Moffat, Ruling Elders. 

W. ROBSON NOTMAN, 

William R. Richards, 
James H. Snowden, 
William R. Taylor, 

Ministers. 



CONCEKNING THE USE OF THIS 
BOOK. 



None of the Forms of Service in this Book are intended 
to be in any sense obligatory ; but where a given Order is 
voluntarily used it will promote unity and the general con- 
venience if the parts are followed as here arranged. 

In order that all the People should take their part in the 
Public Worship of God, it is most earnestly recommended 
that, in those churches which choose to make use of the fol- 
lowing Orders and Forms of Service, every member of the Con- 
gregation should be supplied with a copy of this Book ; and, 
also, that the directions which precede each part of the differ- 
ent services should be studied beforehand both by Minister 
and People, so that confusion or uncertainty in the conduct 
of Worship may be avoided. 

If The playing of a voluntary on the organ while the Con- 
gregation are assembling, the singing of a Psalm instead of 
the responsive reading from the Psalter, or of an Anthem 
after the Scripture reading, and other like observances, are 
left to the choice and usage of each church. But it should 
always be remembered that the Organist and the Choir are 
members of the Congregation, and that their cooperation will 
be of the greatest help to the Minister in conducting all the 
parts of Worship. 

To attain the prompt and hearty participation of the 
People, it is necessary that they should knoic beforehand what 
is expected of them. Therefore, when any change is to be 
made in the order of a Service as given in the Book (as, for 
example, in the use of The Commandments at the Morning 
Service, The Beatitudes at the Evening Service, or in the 
time of making the Offering or of singing the last Hymn), 
the Minister should be careful that the Congregation are 



viii CONCERNING THE USE OF THIS BOOK. 



duly notified. It is also desirable, in places where it is con- 
venient, that the numbers of the Hymns and of the Selection 
from the Psalter be posted where they can be seen by the 
Congregation. 

If In connection with the General Prayer in the Lord's 
Day Services it is recommended that the Minister make faith- 
ful prepara tion of his o wn heart and mind to lead the People 
in their Adorations, Thanksgivings, Supplications, and 
Intercessions. If he should make any use, in thus preparing 
himself, of those which are given in the Treasury of 
Prayers, this should be done icith forethought and much 
care, in order not only to avoid injudicious length, but also 
that the prayer may be framed to express his own thought and 
feeling, and may also be suited to the occasion or the special 
need of the congregation. 

TJ The use of this Book will be profitable only to those who 
are careful not to make it a means of formal or restricted 
worship, either public or private ; but who remember always 
their duty as Christians both to seek and to cherish the gift 
of Prayer, by ichich they shall be enabled to frame wise and 
earnest and reverent petitions, as well for others as for 
themselves. And in every service of the Church it is fitting 
that the Minister and every one of the People should pray in 
silence, at the beginning, for the guidance and help of the 
Holy Spirit, and at the close of the service, that all who have 
taken part in it may receive the blessing of God through 
Jesus Christ. 



TABLE OF CONTEXTS. 



PAGE 



Preface iii 

Concerning the Use of this Book vii 

The Order of Morning Service 1 

The Order of Evening Service 10 

A Brief Order of Worship 19 

The Commandments 27 

The Beatitudes 31 

The Order for the Celebration of the Com- 
munion 34 

The Order for the Administration of Baptism 

to Infants 40 

The Order for the Administration of Baptism 

to Adults 43 

The Order for the Confirmation of Baptismal 

Vows 47 

An Order for the Reception of Communicants 

from Other Churches 50 

The Order for the Solemnization of Marriage 51 

The Order for the Burial of the Dead ... 55 

The Order for the Licensing of Candidates 

to Preach the Gospel 73 

The Order for the Ordination of Ministers . 77 
The Order for the Installation of a Pastor 

who has been previously ordained .... 83 
The Order for the Ordination of Ruling 

Elders 87 

The Order for the Installation of Ruling 

Elders who have been Previously Ordained . 90 

The Order for the Ordination of Deacons . . 92 



X 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



The Order for Laying the Corner-Stone of a 



Church 96 

The Order for the Dedication of a Church . 100 

The Treasury of Prayers 107 

I. General Prayers for Common Worship 109 
II. Prayers for Certain Times and Seasons 117 

III. Intercessions for Special Objects and 

Persons 129 

IV. Brief Petitions 142 

V. Ascriptions of Praise 151 

Family Prayers 153 

The Psalter 167 

Ancient Hymns and Canticles 254 



THE ORDER OF 



MORNING SERVICE 

ON THE LORD'S DAY. 



The Call to Worship. 

IT Let the Minister and all the People stand up and sing the fol- 
lowing, or some other Hymn or Psalm calling to Worship. 

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow ; 
Praise Him, all creatures here below ; 
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host : 
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

IT Let the Minister read one of the following Sentences, the Peo- 
ple standing. 

T If any church so desire the Service may begin with the 
Sentences. 

OUR help is in the Name of the Lord, who made heaven 
^ and earth. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call 
upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth. He will 
fulfil the desire of them that fear Him : He also will hear 
their cry, and will save them. (Psalm cxxiv. 8 : cxlv. 18, 
19.) 

O come, let us worship and bow down : let us kneel 
before the Lord our maker. Know ye that the Lord He 
is God : it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves ; 
we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. (Psalm 
xcv. 6: c. 3.) 

Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon 
Him while He is near : Let the wicked forsake his way, 
and the unrighteous man his thoughts : and let him re- 
turn unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him ; 
and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. (Isaiah 
lv. 6, 7.) 



2 MORNING SERVICE. 



The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and 
plenteous in mercy. He hath not dealt with us after our 
sins ; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. If we 
confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our 
sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (Psalm 
ciii. 8, 10: 1 St. John I 9.) 

Seeing that we have a great High Priest, that is passed 
into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God : Let us therefore 
come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain 
mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews iv. 
14, 16.) 

IF Then shall the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 

IT Let the People reverently bow down while the Minister leads them 
in the Invocation, using if he will one of the following Prayers : 

The Invocation. 

A LMIGHTY God, who of Thy great mercy hast gath- 
ered us into Thy visible Church ; Grant that we may 
not swerve from the purity of Thy worship ; but so honour 
Thee, both in spirit and in outward form, that Thy Name 
may be glorified in us, and we may be true members of 
Thine only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

INTERNAL God, our Maker and our Lord, Giver of all 
grace, from whom every good prayer cometh, and 
who pourest Thy Spirit upon all who seek Thee ; Deliver 
us, when we draw nigh to Thee, from coldness of heart 
and wanderings of mind ; that with steadfast thoughts 
and pure affections we may worship Thee in spirit and in 
truth ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T ORD God of heaven and earth, who hast made the 
Church Thy dwelling-place, and chosen it as Thy 
rest for ever, and hast taught us in Thy Word not to for- 
sake the assembling of ourselves together; Regard us in 
Thy mercy, we beseech Thee, and send Thy Holy Spirit 
upon us ; that our worship may prepare us both to serve 



MORNING SERVICE. 3 



Thee now, and to glorify Thee hereafter in Thine eternal 
kingdom ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f\ GOD, who hast promised that in all places where 
" Thou dost record Thy Name, Thou wilt meet with 
Thy servants to bless them; Fulfil now Thy promise, 
and make us joyful in Thy house of prayer ; that our wor- 
ship, being offered in the Name of Thy Son and by the 
guidance of Thy Spirit, may be acceptable unto Thee, and 
profitable unto ourselves ; through our only Mediator and 
Advocate, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY Lord and everlasting God, whom the 
heaven of heavens cannot contain, much less the 
temples which our hands have builded, but who art ever 
nigh unto the humble and contrite ; Shed down Thy Holy 
Spirit, we beseech Thee, on all here assembled ; that, be- 
ing cleansed and illumined by His grace, we may worthily 
show forth Thy praise, meekly learn Thy Word, render 
due thanks for Thy mercies, and obtain a gracious answer 
to our prayers ; through the merits of Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 



The Confession of Sins. 

H The People may say this Confession with the Minister : 

TVF OST holy and merciful Father ; We acknowledge 
and confess in Thy Presence : Our sinful nature prone 
to evil and slothful in good ; And all our shortcomings 
and offenses against Thee. Thou alone knowest how 
often we have sinned : In wandering from Thy ways ; In 
wasting Thy gifts ; In forgetting Thy love. But Thou, 
Lord, have pity upon us ; Who are ashamed and sorry 
for all wherein we have displeased Thee. Teach us to 
hate our errors ; Cleanse us from our secret faults ; And 
forgive our sins ; For the sake of Thy dear Son our Saviour. 
And O most holy and loving Father ; Send Thy purifying 
grace into our hearts, we beseech Thee; That we may 
henceforth live in Thy light and walk in Thy ways ; 
According to the commandments of Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



4 MORNING SERVICE. 



The Assurance of Pardon. 

IF To be said by the Minister, the People still bowing down. 

A LMIGHTY God, who doth freely pardon all who re- 
pent and turn to Him ; Now fulfil in every contrite 
heart the promise of redeeming grace; remitting all our 
sins, and cleansing us from an evil conscience; through 
the perfect sacrifice of Christ our Lord ; And keep us ever- 
more in the peace and joy of a holy life ; that we may love 
and serve Him always; In the Name of the Father, the 
Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen. 

IT Or this: 

OD so loved the world, that He gave His only-begot- 
" ten Son, that whosoever belie veth in Him should not 
perish, but have everlasting life. 

Hear the gracious words of our Lord Jesus Christ unto 
all that truly repent and turn to Him : 

Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, 
and I will give you rest. 

Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out. 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. 
Amen. 

IF Then let the Minister and the People, standing, say, 

Minister. Now bless the Lord our God : 

Answer. And praise His glorious Name. 

Minister. O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good : 

Ansicer. For His mercy endureth for ever. 



The Psalter. 

TT Then let a portion of the Psalter be chanted, or read respon- 
sively by the Minister and the People, all standing, and at the 
end may be said or sang, 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son ; and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



MORNING SERVICE. 5 



IT The People being seated shall attend devoutly to 
The Public Reading of the Holy Scriptures. 

% Let the Minister read from the Word of God as it is written 
in the Old and New Testaments, clearly and distinctly, that 
the People may understand the meaning. If a lesson from 
each Testament is read, as is most proper and profitable, 
that from the Old Testament may be followed, in places 
where there are choirs, by the singing of an Anthem or Response. 

H Before each reading let the Minister say, Hear the Holy Scrip • 
ture as it is written in such a chapter of such a book : and 
after the reading, The Lord bless to us the reading of His Holy 
Word. 

% If the Old Testament reading be the Ten Commandments, after 
them the Minister shall read St. Matthew xxii. 37-40, saying 
before he reads, Hear also the Summary of the Law by our 
Lord Jesus Christ. 

A Hymn of Praise. 

1[ Here let the People stand up and praise God with the spirit and 
with the understanding, making melody with their voices as 
well as with their hearts, unto the Lord. And at the close of 
the Hymn let them remain standing and join with the Minister 
in their Confession of Faith. 



The Creed. 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 
and earth: 

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary, 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and 
buried : [He descended into hell ; *] The third day He rose 
again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From 
thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The Holy Catholic Church ; 
The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The 
Resurrection of the body ; and the Life everlasting. Amen. 

IT Then shall the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 



* Or, He continued in the state of the dead, and under the power 
of death, until the third day. 



6 



MORNING SERVICE. 



IT And the People, reverently bowing down, shall follow in their 
hearts 

The General Prayer. 

II The Minister, leading the People in their Common Prayers, shall 
come with a heart prepared to offer unto God — 

Adorations: for His glorious perfection, and for the revelation 
of Himself in His works, in His Word, and in His Son, Jesus 
Christ: 

Thanksgivings: for all mercies of every kind, general and par- 
ticular, spiritual and temporal, common and special; above 
all, for Jesus Christ, His xuispeakable gift, and the hope of 
eternal life through Him. 

Supplications: for the supply of all our needs temporal and 
spiritual, and for the aid and comfort of the Holy Ghost in all 
our duties and trials: 

Intercessions : for the whole world of mankind ; remembering 
especially our country and all who are invested with civil au- 
thority ; the Church Universal and that with which we are 
particularly connected ; all missionaries and ministers of the 
Gospel; and all others who are seeking to do good on earth; 
all poor and sick and sorrowful people, {especially those for 
whom our prayers are asked, ; ) cdl little children and, the youth 
assembled in schools and colleges; those who are in the midst 
of great danger or temptation; and all who are bound to us by 
ties of kinship or affection: 

IT In any or all of these Adorations. Thanksgivings, Supplications, 
and Intercessions, the Minister, if he will, may use any of the 
Prayers given in this Book, under the title of Treasury of 
Prayers. Or he may carefully order h is thoughts and compose 
his spirit to utter with propriety the desires and petitions of 
the People, remembering what is suitable and necessary for 
them in their Common Worship. At the end of the General 
Prayer the Minister and People shall say together the Lord's 
Prayer. 



The Lord's Prayer. 

f\ UR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
^ Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is 
in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive 
us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead us not 
into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine is the 
kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. 



MORNING SERVICE. 7 



The Offering. 

IF The bringing of offerings for the service of God is to be performed 
as an Act of Worship Let the Minister, having made such 
Announcements as are needful and fitting, then say, Let us 
make our Offering to Almighty God for (naming the cause). 
If the choir sing a Canticle or Anthem it shoidd be one proper 
for the occasion. 

If When the gifts are brought to the Table, the Minister shall dedi- 
cate them to God with a brief Prayer for His blessing ; the 
church-officers who have gathered the gifts standing, and the 
congregation bowiny down. 

IF On special occasions the Offering may be made after the Sermon. 



A Prayer of Dedication. 

f\ GOD, most merciful and gracious, of whose bounty we 
" have all received ; We beseech Thee to accept this 
Offering of Thy people. Remember in Thy love those 
who have brought it, and those for whom it is given ; and 
so follow it with Thy blessing that it may promote peace 
and good -will among men, and advance the kingdom of 
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 



% Then let the People stand up and sing 
A Hymn. 



IF Then the Minister, taking his text from the Word of God, and 
remembering that it is his office to instruct men in divine 
Truth, to hold forth Christ crucified as their Saviour, and to 
incite them to Christian faith and duty, shall preach 

The Sermon. 



IF The Sermon being ended, let the People stand up and sing 
A Hymn. 



IF Then shall the Minister say t 
Let us pray. 



8 



MORNING SERVICE. 



H Then let the People reverently bow down while the Minister leads 
them in Prayer, using if he so desire one of the following as 

The Closing Prayer. 

f \ GOD, the Protector of all that trust in Thee, without 
" whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy ; Increase and 
multiply upon us Thy mercy, that, Thou being our ruler 
and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that 
we finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, O hea- 
venly Father, for Jesus Christ's sake, our Lord. Amen. 

f\ LORD, the Author of spiritual life, who hast given 
" unto us the good seed of Thy Word ; Grant that we 
may receive it into honest hearts : and so guard it by Thy 
grace from the wiles of Satan and the cares of this life, that 
the faith and hope and love which Thou hast begotten, 
may be in us the beginning of life eternal ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f\ GOD, who hast sounded in our ears Thy divine and 
^ saving oracles; Enlighten the souls of us sinners to the 
full understanding of what has been spoken, that we may 
be not only hearers of spiritual words, but also doers of 
good works, following after faith unfeigned, blameless 
life, and irreproachable conduct ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

II/TOST merciful God, we beseech Thee to grant unto us 
that we may earnestly desire, wisely search out, truly 
perceive, and perfectly fulfil those things which are well 
pleasing in Thy sight, to the praise and glory of Thy 
Name. Amen. 

f \ GOD, who art the Author of peace and Lover of concord, 
" in knowledge of whom standeth our eternal life, whose 
service is perfect freedom ; Defend us Thy humble servants 
in all assaults of our enemies ; that we, surely trusting in 
Thy defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries ; 
through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



MORNING SERVICE. 9 



A LMIGHTY God, who hast given us grace at this time 
with one accord to make our common supplications 
unto Thee : and dost promise that when two or three are 
gathered together in Thy Name Thou wilt grant their re- 
quests ; Fulfil now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of 
Thy servants, as may be most expedient for them ; grant- 
ing us in this world knowledge of Thy truth, and in the 
world to come life everlasting. Amen. 

IT The People remaining in the posture of prayer, the Minister 
shall pronounce 

The Benediction. 

rPHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you 
all. Amen. 

Hi Or this: 

rpHE peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord ; and the bless- 
ing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. 
Amen. 

If After the Benediction it is fitting that the Minister and People 
remain in silent prayer, beseeching God that none may leave 
His House without a blessing. 

IF Note that the last Hymn may be sung after the Prayer if such be 
the wish and usage of any church. 



THE ORDER OF 

EVENING SERVICE 

ON THE LORD'S DAY. 

II Let a Hymn be sung, all the People standing, and then let the 
Minister read one or more of the following Sentences. 

be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, 
" and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians i. 3.) 

Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eter- 
nity, whose name is Holy ; I dwell in the high and holy 
place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, 
to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart 

of the contrite ones. {Isaiah lvii. 15.) 

The hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers 
shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth : for the 
Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a Spirit : and 
they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in 
truth. (St. John iv. 23, 24.) 

Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense ; and 
the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. (Psalm 
cxli. 2.) 

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness : fear be- 
fore Him, all the earth. (Psalm xcvi. 9.) 

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my 
heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength 
and my redeemer. (Psalm xix. 14.) 

Ask, and it shall be given you ; seek, and ye shall find ; 
knock, and it shall be opened unto you : for every one that 
asketh receiveth ; and he that seeketh findeth ; and to him 
that knocketh it shall be opened. (St. Matthew vii. 7, 8.) 



EVENING SERVICE. 11 



The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the 
soul that seeketh Him. {Lamentations iii. 25.) 

And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him 
that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. 
And whosovever will, let him take the water of life freely. 
{Revelation xxii. 17.) 

I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, 
Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, and am 
do more worthy to be called thy son. {St. Luke xv. 18, 19.) 

IT Then let the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 

H Let the People reverently boiv down while the Minister leads 
them in the Invocation and Confession, xising if he will one of 
the following Prayers : 

The Invocation and Confession. 

f\ GOD, the Father of lights, with whom is no variable- 
" ness nor shadow of turning ; We beseech Thee to look 
in mercy upon us, Thy sinful and wayward children : and 
so direct the eyes of our faith unto Thee, that at all times 
we may receive a heavenly illumination, through Thy 
Word and Spirit ; and walk securely, in confidence and 
peace, amid the shadows of this mortal life. And more 
especially at this hour of the evening sacrifice, bestow upon 
us the pardon of our sins, and such a vision of the truth as 
it is in Jesus, that the darkness of evil may be driven from 
our hearts, and we may render unto Thee songs of praise ; 
through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

INTERNAL God, in whom we live and move and have our 
being, whose face is hidden from us by our sins, and 
whose mercy we forget in the blindness of our hearts ; 
Cleanse us, we beseech Thee, from all the defilements of 
this day, and deliver us from all proud thoughts and vain 
desires; that with lowliness and meekness we may draw 
near to Thee in prayer, confessing our sins, confiding in 
Thy grace, and finding in Thee our refuge and our strength, 
our hope and our salvation; through Jesus Christ Thy Son. 
Amen. 



12 



EVENING SERVICE. 



LMIGHTY and most merciful God, who hast appointed 



our portion of labour, that we may serve Thee while it 
is day ; and by whose ordinance the weariness of night 
cometh, that we may seek our rest in Thee ; We beseech 
Thee now to lead and draw our hearts unto Thy dear Son, 
that, confessing our sin and weakness, we may receive of 
Him the grace promised unto the heavy-laden ; and, being 
forgiven by His mercy, comforted by His Word, refreshed 
by His Spirit, and lifted up by His fellowship, we may find 
in this hour of worship a blessing for our souls ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f\ GOD, Light of the hearts that see Thee, and Life of the 
" souls that love Thee, and Strength of the thoughts that 
seek Thee ; from whom to be turned away is to fall, to 
whom to be turned is to rise, and in whom to abide is to 
stand fast for ever; Grant us now Thy forgiveness and 
blessing, as we are here assembled to offer up our confes- 
sion and supplications ; and though we are unworthy to 
approach Thee, or to ask anything of Thee at all, vouch- 
safe to hear and to answer us, for the sake of our great 
High Priest and Advocate, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. 

% The Prayer may close with these Petitions of Holy Scripture, 
to be said responsively by the Minister and People, still bowing 



Create in us a clean heart, O God : 
And renew a right spirit within us. 
Cast us not away from Thy presence : 
And take not Thy Holy Spirit from us. 
Restore unto us the joy of Thy salvation : 
And uphold us with Thy free Spirit. 
O Lord, open Thou our lips: 

And our mouth shall show forth Thy praise. Amen. 



1T Then let a portion of the Psalter be chanted, or read respon- 
sively by the Minister and the People, all standing, and at the 
end let all say or sing, 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 



As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 




down. 



The Psalter. 



Ghost ; 



EVENING SERVICE. 13 



IT Or else, the Gloria in Excelsis as follows : 

fTLOBY be to God on high : and on earth peace, good 
" will towards men. 

We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee : we 
glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory. 

O Lord God, heavenly King : God the Father Almighty. 

O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ : O Lord 
God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, 

That takest away the sins of the world : have mercy 
upon us. 

Thou that takest away the sins of the world : receive our 
prayer. 

Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father : 
have mercy upon us. 

For Thou only art holy : Thou only art the Lord. 

Thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost : art most high 
in the glory of God the Father. Amen. 



H Note that, if any church so desire, a Hymn may be sung in place 
of the Psalter. 



The Public Reading of the Holy Scriptures. 

H The People being seated shall attend devoutly to the Minister as 
he reads clearly and distinctly from the Word of God. Be- 
fore the reading let the Minister say. Hear the Holy Scripture 
as it is written in such a chapter of such a book : and after 
the reading he shall say, The Lord bless to us the reading of 
His Holy Word. 



t After the reading of Scripture, an Anthem or Hymn may be 
sung. 

IT Then let the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 




14 EVENING SERVICE. 

IF And the People, reverently bowing down, shall follow in their 
hearts 

The General Prayer. 

IT The Minister, leading the People in their Common Prayers, shall 
offer unto God such Adorations and Thanksgivings ; such In- 
tercessions for the Church, for the State, and for all men, es- 
pecially for those who are out of Christ and those who are in 
any peril or distress ; and such Supplications for enlighten- 
ment, protection, and guidance; as he may think fitting for 
this Service. And if he will, he may use any of the Prayers 
given in this Book {under the title of Treasury of Prayers), 
or those here following : 

f~\ GOD, in glory exalted, and in mercy ever-blessed : We 
" magnify Thee, we praise Thee, we give thanks unto 
Thee for Thy bountiful providence, for all the blessings of 
this present life, and all the hopes of a better life to come. 
Let the memory of Thy goodness, we beseech Thee, fill our 
hearts with joy and thankfulness; and let no unworthi- 
ness of ours provoke Thee to withhold from us any needed 
good, seeing that all Thy blessings come not by our desert, 
but only through the merit and mediation of Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

f \ LORD of heaven and earth, who hast promised to re- 
^ veal Thy glory by Jesus Christ among all nations ; Re- 
member, we beseech Thee, Thy holy Church throughout 
all the world. Unite all who profess and call themselves 
Christians in the bond of a living faith as the body of 
Christ, and so replenish them and us with the grace of Thy 
Holy Spirit, that we may bring forth abundantly the fruits 
of peace and good works, and may turn many to righteous- 
ness through the preaching of the Gospel. And grant that, 
having persevered in the way of godliness to the end, we 
may, with prophets, apostles, martyrs, confessors, and 
saints of all ages, come into full communion with Thee, 
and with one another, in Thine eternal and glorious king- 
dom ; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast heard the prayer of our 
fathers, and established our Nation in freedom according 
to the people's will ; We implore Thy blessing on the Re- 
public ; that Thou wouldst grant us peaceful times and 
fruitful seasons ; that Thou wouldst bless our homes, pros- 



EVENING SERVICE. 



15 



per our industries, and defend us from our enemies ; that 
Thou wouldst govern and protect Thy servant the Presi- 
dent of the United States, and all to whom authority is 
given; the Governor of the State, and all law -makers and 
judges : that Thou wouldst unite the hearts of the people 
to dwell together in concord : and that Thou wouldst en- 
rich our land with liberty and order, godliness and power ; 
for the good of the world and the glory of Thy Name ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

r\ GOD, Creator and Preserver of all mankind, we im- 
" plore Thy mercy in behalf of all classes and condi- 
tions of men ; that it may please Thee to visit them with 
Thy help, according to their manifold necessities. Have 
compassion upon all who are out of Christ, and draw them 
unto Him. Show Thy pity upon all prisoners and captives ; 
upon all sick and dying persons; and upon all who are 
poor, desolate, or afflicted. Enable them to look unto Thee, 
O most merciful Father, and to find Thee a present Saviour 
in their time of trouble. And let it please Thee to de- 
liver them, and raise them up in due time, giving them 
patience under all their sufferings, the rich comfort of Thy 
grace on earth, and eternal rest with Thee in heaven; 
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Ci ALMIGHTY Lord, and everlasting God, vouchsafe, 
^ we beseech Thee, to direct, sanctify, and govern, both 
our hearts and bodies in the ways of Thy laws, and in the 
works of Thy commandments ; that through Thy most 
mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be pre- 
served in body and soul; through our Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

T IGHTEN our darkness, we beseech Thee, O Lord ; and 
by Thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dan- 
gers of this night ; for the love of Thy only Son, our 
Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

And the Prayer may close with the following Ascription: 

"M'OW unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, 
and to present you faultless before the presence of 
His glory with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our 



16 



EVENING SERVICE. 



Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both 
now and ever. Amen. 



H Let the Minister, having made such Announcements as are need- 
ful and fitting, then say, Let us make our Offering to Almighty 
God for (naming the cause). If the choir sing a Canticle or 
Anthem it should be one proper for the occasion. When the 
gifts are brought to the Table, the Minister shall dedicate 
them to God with a brief prayer for His blessing ; the church- 
officers who have gathered the gifts standing, and the congre- 
gation bowing down. 

U On special occasions the Offering may be made after the Sermon. 



LL gracious God, who of Thine infinite love didst give 



^ Thine only -begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our 
sins and rise again for our justification, and hast made us 
partakers of the divine nature through the gift of the Holy 
Spirit ; Accept the Gffering which we now present unto 
Thee : and grant that our bodies, souls, and spirits may be 
unto Thee a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing in Thy 
sight ; and that going forth in Thy strength, we may be 
able truly to serve Thee, and in all things to obey Thy 
will ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



II Then the Minister, taking his text from the Word of God, and, 
remembering that it is his office to instruct men in divine 
Truth, to hold forth Christ crucified as their Saviour, and to 
incite them to Christian faith and duty, shall preach 



H The Sermon being ended, let the People stand up and sing 



The Offering. 



A Prayer of Dedication. 




% Then let th e People stand up and sing 

A Hymn. 



The Sermon. 



A Hymn. 



H Then shall the Minister say, 



Let us pray. 



EVENING SERVICE. 17 



IT The People reverently bowing down, the Minister shall lead them 
in their devotions, using if he so desire one or more of the 
following Prayers, ending with the Lord's Prayer : 

The Closing Prayer. 

Q.RANT, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that the words, 
which we have heard this day with our outward ears, 
may through Thy grace be so grafted inwardly in our 
hearts, that they may bring forth in us the fruit of good liv- 
ing, to the honour and praise of Thy Name ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T ET Thy Gospel, O Lord, come unto us not in word only 
H but in power, and in much assurance, and in the Holy 
Ghost, that we may be guided into all truth, and strength 
ened unto all obedience and enduring of Thy will with joy 
fulness ; that, abounding in the work of faith, and the labour 
of love, and the patience of hope, we may finally be made 
partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

C\ LORD Jesus Christ, who hast died for us, that whether 
^ we wake or sleep, we should live together with Thee ; 
Be Thou our strength every morning, and our rest when 
the shadows of the evening are stretched out, O Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

f\ GOD, from whom all holy desires, all good counsels, 
" and all just works do proceed; Give unto Thy servants 
that peace which the world cannot give ; that both our 
hearts may be set to obey Thy commandments, and also 
that by Thee, we, being defended from the fear of our ene- 
mies, may pass our time in rest and quietness; through the 
merits of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

"EXTERNAL and ever-blessed God, who art the Author of 
our life, and the End of our pilgrimage ; We beseech 
Thee so to guide us by Thy Word and Spirit, amid all 
perils and temptations, that we may not wander from Thy 
way, nor stumble upon the dark mountains ; but may 
finish our course in safety, and come to our eternal rest in 
Thee ; through the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 



18 EVENING SERVICE. 



f \ LORD God, the Light of the faithful, the Strength of 
" those who labour, and the Repose of the blessed dead ; 
We bless Thee for all Thy saints who have witnessed in 
their lives a good confession, and especially for those dear 
unto us who have fallen asleep in Jesus. Grant us grace, 
O Lord, so to follow their good example, that we may be 
one with them in spirit, and finally share in their eternal 
rest; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Lord's Prayer. 
IF To be said by Minister and People. 

OUR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 

IT The People remaining in the posture of prayer, the Minister shall 
pronounce 

The Benediction. 

rpHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 

Amen. 

f Or this: 

HPHE peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of His son Jesus Christ our Lord ; and the bless- 
ing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. 
Amen. 

H After the Benediction it is fitting that the Minister and People 
remain in silent prayer, beseeching God that none may leave 
His House without a blessing. 

H Note that the last Hymn may be omitted, or its place in the Ser- 
vice changed, according to the wish and usage of any church. 



A BRIEF 



ORDER OF WORSHIP. 

H This Service is intended for the use of any company of Christians, 
gathered together to worship God, on land or at sea, where 
there are no regular Church Ordinances, or where a Minister 
of the Gospel is not present. 

IT If it be desired, the Service may begin with the Singing of a 
Hymn; after which the Leader, standing, may read one or 
more of the following Sentences taken from the Holy 
Scriptures. 

Sentences. 

MORNING. 

rPHE Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to 
all that call upon Him in truth. He will fulfil the de- 
sire of them that fear Him; He also will hear their cry, 
and will save them. 

Our help is in the Name of the Lord, who made heaven 
and earth. 

Where two or three are gathered together in My Name, 
saith the Lord Jesus, there am I in the midst of them. 

This is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we 
ask anything according to His will, He heareth us. 

Having these promises, let us draw near to the throne of 
grace with true hearts, in full assurance of faith. 

My voice shalt Thou hear in the morning, O Lord ; in 
the morning will I direct my prayer unto Thee, and will 
look up. 



20 A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 



EVENING. 

TTE that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High 
shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

Lord, I cry unto Thee: make haste unto me; give ear 
unto my voice, when I cry unto Thee. 

Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense ; and 
the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. 

I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge, and my fortress: 
my God ; in Him will I trust. 

Return unto thy rest, O my soul ; for the Lord hath dealt 
bountifully with thee. 

Abide with us : for it is toward evening, and the day is 
far spent. 

Hi Then shall he say, 
Let us pray. 

IT Let all the company botv down, following the Prayer in their 
hearts, and, if they so desire, joining audibly in the Confession 
of Sins and the Lord's Prayer. 

Prayers. 

A LMIGHTY God, unto whom all hearts are open, all 
desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid; 
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of 
Thy Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and 
worthily magnify Thy holy Name ; through Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

"V/TOST holy and merciful Father ; We acknowledge and 
JJJ - confess in Thy Presence : Our sinful nature prone to 
evil and slothful in good ; And all our shortcomings and 
oHenses against Thee. Thou alone knowest how often we 
have sinned : In wandering from Thy ways ; In wasting 
Thy gifts; In forgetting Thy love. But Thou, O Lord, 
have pity upon us ; Who are ashamed and sorry for all 
wherein we have displeased Thee. Teach us to hate our 
errors ; Cleanse us from our secret faults ; And forgive our 



A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 21 



sins ; For the sake of Thy dear Son our Saviour. And O 
most holy and loving Father : Send Thy purifying grace 
into our hearts, we beseech Thee ; That we may henceforth 
live in Thy light and walk in Thy ways ; According to the 
commandments of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

/^UR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
" Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 

The Psalter. 

IT A portion of the Psalter may then be read by the Leader, or 
recited responsively, closing with this Ascription : 

GLORY be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the 
Holy Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



IT Let all the company, standing, repeat together 
The Apostles' Creed. 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of 
heaven and earth : 

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary ; 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and 
buried; [He descended into hell;*] The third day He rose 
again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From 
thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The Holy Catholic Church ; 
The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The 
Resurrection of the body ; and the Life everlasting. Amen. 



* Or, He continued in the state of the dead, and under the poiuer 
of death, until the third day. 



22 A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 



The Reading of the Holy Scriptures. 

IF The Leader shall choose and read an appropriate lesson, or les- 
sons, from the Bible, saying before he reads, Let us listen rev- 
erently to the Holy Scripture, as it is written in the 

chapter of ; and after the reading he shall say, May God 

bless, to all our hearts, the reading of His Word. 

A Hymn. 

H If it be convenient the company may then sing a Hymn; and 
after this, if it be desired, the Leader may read a Sermon, or a 
brief passage from some Christian book; or a word, of exhorta- 
tion and counsel may be spoken by the Leader or some other 
member of the company. If this is done, let another Hymn be 
sung before the closing Prayers. The Leader may choose from 
the following such as are appropriate; and, the company bow- 
ing down, he shall say, 

Let us pray. 



Prayers. 

Thanksgiving. 

f\ GOD, by whose hand all living things were made, and 
^ by whose blessing they are nourished and sustained ; 
We give Thee hearty thanks for all the bounties of Thy 
providence, wherewith Thou hast enriched our life; and 
we humbly pray that, enjoying Thy gifts in contentment, 
we may be enabled by Thy grace to use them to Thy 
praise. Especially we thank Thee for Thy great love in 
sending Thy Son to be the Saviour of the world and in 
calling us out of our sins into fellowship with Him : and 
we beseech Thee to grant us always Thy Holy Spirit, 
through whom we may grow continually in thankfulness 
toward Thee, as also into the likeness of Thy Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Supplication. 

f\ GOD, most holy, wise, and powerful Preserver and 
^ Governor of all Thy creatures and all their actions ; 
Keep us this day in health of body and soundness of mind, 



A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHP. 



23 



in purity of heart and cheerfulness of spirit, in content- 
ment with our lot and charity with our neighbour; and 
further all our lawful undertakings with Thy blessing. In 
our labour strengthen us : in our pleasure purify us : in 
our difficulties direct us : in our perils defend us : in our 
troubles comfort us: and supply all our needs, according to 
the riches of Thy grace in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. 

A Traveller's Prayer. 

T ORD God omnipotent, who reignest in the heavens and 
^ on the earth ; We implore Thy guidance and protection 
for all our journeyings. Against all perils be Thou our 
strong defense, and in far regions be Thou our faithful 
friend ; keep us in health and heart ; prosper the ends of 
our adventure, and make the way of our going and of our 
returning both safe and happy ; and so direct the steps of 
all Thy pilgrims through this world, that we shall finally 
arrive in the better country, even the heavenly, with Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



A Prayer at Sea. 

f\ ETERNAL Lord God, who alone spreadest out the 
" heavens, and rulest the raging of the sea ; We com- 
mend ourselves to Thine almighty protection on the great 
deep. Guard us, we beseech Thee, from the dangers of 
the sea, from sickness, from the violence of enemies, from 
every evil ; and conduct us in safety to our desired haven, 
with a grateful sense of Thy mercies ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 



A Prayer for Friends and Kindred. 

f \ LORD, our heavenly Father, bless and keep, we pray 
^ Thee, our kindred, friends, and benefactors, and gra- 
ciously watch between them and us, while we are absent 
one from another, that in due time we may meet again to 
praise Thee, and hereafter dwell together in heavenly man- 
sions ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 



24 A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 



A General Intercession. 

f\ GOD, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, we 
" humbly beseech Thee for all sorts and conditions of 
men; that Thou wouldest be pleased to make Thy ways 
known unto them, Thy saving health unto all nations. 
More especially, we pray for Thy holy Church universal ; 
that it may be so guided and governed by Thy good Spirit, 
that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be 
led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of 
spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. 
Finally, we commend to Thy fatherly goodness all those 
who are any ways afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, 
or estate ; that it may please Thee to comfort and relieve 
them, according to their several necessities ; giving them 
patience under their sufferings, and a happy issue out of 
all their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus Christ's 
sake. Amen. 



A General Prayer in the Morning. 

A LMIGHTY God, our Father and Preserver; We give 
Thee thanks that of Thy goodness Thou hast watched 
over us the past night, and brought us to a new day : and 
we beseech Thee to strengthen and guard us by Thy 
Spirit, that we may spend it wholly in Thy service and to 
Thy glory, looking for all prosperity to Thy blessing, and 
seeking only those things which are well -pleasing in Thy 
sight. Enable us, O Lord, while we labour for the life 
that now is, ever to have regard unto that heavenly life 
which Thou hast promised Thy children. Defend us in 
soul and body from all harm. And seeing it is a small 
thing to have begun well, except we also persevere, take 
us, O Lord, into Thy good keeping this day and all our 
days : continue and increase Thy grace within us, until we 
shall be perfectly united in the glory of Thy Son. Show 
Thy loving-kindness unto all men and women and little 
children, according to the need of every living soul, espe- 
cially unto those whom we love, and those who are in any 
kind of trouble or distress, whom we now remember 



A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 25 



silently before Thee : [here let there be a moment of prayer 
in silence :] Protect our country and prosper Thy Church : 
Bless all who do good in the world, and restrain and con- 
vert all who do evil. And finally, be pleased to cast out 
of Thy remembrance all our past offenses, forgiving them 
in Thy boundless mercy and purifying our hearts that we 
may lead a better life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



A Genekal Prayer in the Evening. 

f\ GOD most merciful, Light eternal in the darkness 
" shining, by whom the night of sin and the blindness 
of our hearts are driven away : Since Thou hast appointed 
the day for labour and the night for rest ; grant unto us, 
we beseech Thee, that our bodies may repose in peace and 
quietness, that afterward they may be able to endure the 
toil which Thou hast laid upon us in Thy service : Temper 
our sleep that it be not disorderly, and keep us spotless 
both in body and in soul, that our very rest may be to Thy 
glory, renewing the strength of our hearts and our joy in 
Thee: Enlighten the eyes of our understanding that we 
may not sleep in death, but obtain deliverance, through 
faith and hope, from all fear of this misery : Defend us 
against all assaults of our enemies, and take us into Thy 
holy protection. And although we have not passed this 
day without greatly sinning against Thee, we beseech 
Thee to hide our sins with Thy mercy, as Thou coverest 
all things on earth with the darkness of the night, that 
they may be blotted out from Thy remembrance, and we 
may abide in Thy Presence and Thy favour, both now and 
for evermore. Relieve and comfort, with Thy fatherly 
goodness, all who are afflicted or distressed in mind, body, 
or estate : Protect and prosper, with Thine almighty power, 
our country and our rulers, the whole Church of Christ on 
earth, our home, and all that we hold dear and sacred: Be 
pleased to guard and help those whom we silently remem- 
ber before Thee : [here let there be a moment of prayer in 
silence :] Bless us and keep us, watch over us and save us, 
O God in whom we trust ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



26 



A BRIEF ORDER OF WORSHIP. 



T IGHTEN our darkness, we beseeeh Thee, O Lord ; and 
by Thy great mercy defend us from all perils and 
dangers of this night ; for the love of Thy only Son, our 
Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A Prayer of St. Chrysostom. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast given us grace at this time 
with one accord to make our common supplications 
unto Thee ; and dost promise that when two or three are 
gathered together in Thy Name Thou wilt grant their re- 
quests : Fulfil now, O Lord, the desires and petitions of 
Thy servants, as may be most expedient for them ; grant- 
ing us in this world knowledge of Thy truth, and in the 
world to come life everlasting. Amen. 

H All the company still bowing down, the Leader may close the Ser- 
vice with this 

Ascription. 

"\TOW unto Him that is able to keep us from falling, and 
to present us faultless before the presence of His 
glory with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our Sav- 
iour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both 
now and ever. Amen. 



THE COMMANDMENTS. 

IT This Order may be used as a separate Service : or it may be said 
at the opening of Morning Service instead of the Order there 
appointed, down to the Reading of the Holy Scriptures; in 
which case it may be pi^eceded by a suitable Hymn. 

If Let all stand while the Minister reads the Sentences, the People 
answering him. 

Minister. Blessed are the undefiled in the way : who walk 

in the law of the Lord. 
Answer. Order my steps in Thy Word : and let not any 

iniquity have dominion over me. 
Minister. Blessed are they that keep His testimonies : 

and that seek Him with the whole heart. 
A nswer. With my whole heart have I sought Thee : let 

me not wander from Thy commandments. 

IT Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

H Let the People reverently bow down while he leads them in 
The Invocation. 

A LMIGHTY God, unto whom all hearts are open, all 
desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid ; 
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Thy 
Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love Thee, and worthily 
magnify Thy holy Name ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IF Then the Minister shall read The Ten Commandments, and 
the People, still bowing down, shall, after every Command- 
ment, ask God's mercy for their transgressions in time past, 
and grace to keep the Law in time to come. 

GOD spake all these words, saying, 
I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of 
the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. 
Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 



28 THE COMMANDMENTS. 



Thou sbalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any 
likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in 
the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth : 
thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them : 
for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the 
iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third 
and fourth generation of them that hate Me ; and showing 
mercy unto thousands of them that love Me, and keep My 
commandments. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in 
vain : for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh 
His Name in vain. 

Lord, haw mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Remember the Sabbath-day, to keep it holy. Six days 
shalt thou labour, and do all thy work : but the seventh 
day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God ; in it thou shalt 
not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy 
man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattle, nor thy 
stranger that is within thy gates : for in six days the Lord 
made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, 
and rested the seventh day ; wherefore the Lord blessed 
the Sabbath-day, and hallowed it. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Honour thy father and thy mother : that thy days may 
be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth 
thee. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not kill. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not commit adultery. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 



THE COMMANDMENTS. 29 



Thou shalt not steal. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. 
Lord, have mercy upon us, and incline our hearts to keep 
this law. 

Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt 
not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his man-servant, nor 
his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that 
is thy neighbour's. 

Lord, have mercy upon us, and write all these Thy laws 
in our hearts, we beseech Thee. 

IT Then the Minister shall say, 

Hear also what our Lord Jesus Christ saith : 
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, 
and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the 
first and great commandment. And the second is like 
unto it ; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On 
these two commandments hang all the Law and the 
Prophets. 

IF After a short pause let the Minister continue in Prayer, urtng, if 
he will, the following, or other fitting words. 

T\TE confess to Thee, Almighty God, Father, Son, and 
Holy Ghost, that we have grievously sinned in 
thought, word, and deed. Make us truly contrite. Fill 
us with holy fear, and give us grace to amend our lives 
according to Thy Word, for the glory of Thy holy Name ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, who of His great 
mercy hath promised forgiveness of sins to all them 
that with hearty repentance and true faith turn to Him ; 
Have mercy upon you ; pardon and deliver you from all 
your sins ; confirm and strengthen you in all goodness ; and 
bring you to everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 



30 THE COMMANDMENTS. 



^OW unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us ; unto Him be glory and dominion in 
the Church by Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world 
without end. Amen. 



THE BEATITUDES. 

IT This Order may be used as a separate Service : or it may be said 
at the opening of Evening Service, instead of the Order there 
appointed, down to the Reading of the Holy Scriptures ; in 
which case it may be preceded by a suitable Hymn. 

H Let all stand while the Minister reads the Sentences, the People 
answering him. 

Minister. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to 
you. Humble yourselves in the sight of the 
Lord, and He shall lift you up. 

Answer. Bow down Thine ear, Lord, hear me : for I am 
poor and needy. 

Minister. Therefore will the Lord wait, that He may be 
gracious unto you, and therefore will He be 
exalted that He may have mercy upon you. 

Answer. Let Thy mercy, Lord, be upon us, according as 
we hope in Thee. 

U Then the Minister shall say, 

Let us pray. 

1T Let the People reverently bow down while he leads them in 
The Invocation. 

lyrERCIFUL God, we beseech Thee to cast Thy bright 
beams of light into our hearts, that we may discern 
the spiritual laws of Thy kingdom, and graciously incline 
us to a true obedience that we may not only hear, but also 
receive, these heavenly blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

IT Thenthe Minister shall read The Beatitudes of the Lord Jesus; 
and the People, still bowing down, shall, after every Beati- 
tude, humbly ask God that it may be fulfilled in their hearts. 

"DLESSED are the poor in spirit : for theirs is the kingdom 
JJ of heaven. 

Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 



32 



THE BEATITUDES. 



Blessed are they that mourn : for they shall be comforted. 
Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are the meek : for they shall inherit the earth. 
Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after right- 
eousness : for they shall be filled. 

Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are the merciful : for they shall obtain mercy. 

Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are the pure in heart : for they shall see God. 

Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are the peacemakers : for they shall be called 
the children of God. 

Lord, be gracious unto us, and help us to obtain this 
blessing. 

Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' 
sake : for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Grant unto us Thy Holy Spirit, God, and enable us 
to obtain all these blessings, through Jesus Christ our Lord. 

H After a short pause, let the Minister continue in Prayer, using, if 
he will, the following, or other fitting words. 

LORY be to Thee, Christ, w T ho hast opened the king- 
^ dom of heaven unto the poor in spirit, and given power 
to them that believe in Thee to become the sons of God. 
Deliver us, O Lord, in Thy great mercy, from all the secret 
sins that hinder us from true blessedness. Strengthen us 
to keep Thy counsels of perfection, and to walk in the way 
of Thy commandments. And grant unto us that peace 
which the world can neither give nor take away, that at the 
last we may come unto Thee in glory, O Thou most blessed 
Lord Jesus, our only Saviour. Amen. 



THE BEATITUDES. 33 



"XTOW unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us ; unto Him be glory and dominion in 
the Church by Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world 
without end. Amen. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION 
OR SACRAMENT OF THE 
LORD'S SUPPER 

IT The Communion, or Supper of the Lord, is to be celebrated 
frequently; but how often, may be determined by tlie Minis- 
ter and Eldership of each congregation, as they may fudge 
most for edification. — Directory for Worship, Chap, ix, § L 

1T It is proper that public notice should be given to the congregation, 
at least the Lord's Day before the administration of the ordi- 
nance, and that, either then or on some day of the week, the 
people be instructed in its nature, and a due preparation for it ; 
that all may come in a suitable manner to this holy feast. — 
Directory for Worship, Chap, ix, § 3. 

IT When the time is come for administration, the Minister shall say, 

T^EARLY beloved, as we draw near to the Lord's Supper 
to celebrate the Holy Communion of the Body and 
Blood of Christ, we are gratefully to remember that our 
Lord instituted this Sacrament to be observed in His 
Church unto the end of the world: for the perpetual re- 
membrance of the sacrifice of Himself in His death, the 
sealing all benefits thereof unto true believers, their spirit- 
ual nourishment and growth in Him, their further engage- 
ment in and to all duties which they owe unto Him ; and 
to be a bond and pledge of their union with Him and with 
each other as members of His mystical body. 

Let us consider earnestly our great need of having our 
comfort and strength so renewed in this our earthly pil- 
grimage and warfare ; and especially how necessary it is 
that we come unto the Lord's Table with knowledge, faith, 
repentance, love, and with hearts hungering and thirsting 
after Christ. Not unto those who live willingly in trans- 
gression and offenses, holding fellowship with hatred, 
malice, or impurity ; nor unto those who cherish pride and 
self-righteousness in their hearts, trusting secretly in their 



THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION. 35 



own works and merits, are these benefits of Christ offered. 
But all that are truly sorry for their sins and would be 
delivered from the burden of them, all that humbly put 
their trust in Christ, and desire His grace that they may 
lead a holy life, are invited and encouraged in His Name 
to come to this Sacrament. Let us therefore so come that 
we may find refreshing and rest unto our souls. 

H Then let the People stand up and sing 
A Hymn. 

T\ If it be more convenient in any church, this Hymn may be omit- 
ted. 

II The Table, on which the elements a re placed, being decently cov- 
ered, the bread in convenient dishes, and the wine in cups, and 
the Communicants orderly and gravely sitting around the 
Table, (or in their seats before it) in the presence of the Minis- 
ter, he shall say, 

T3EL0YED in the Lord, attend to the Words of the Insti- 
tution of the Holy Supper of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
as they are delivered by the Apostle Paul: "I have re- 
ceived of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, 
That the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was 
betrayed took bread ; and when He had given thanks, He 
brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is My body, which is 
broken for you : this do in remembrance of Me. After the 
same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, 
saying, This cup is the New Testament in My blood : this 
do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as 
often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show 
the Lord's death till He come." 
And now, in His Name, I take these elements 

(IT Here the Minister may lay his hand upon the plate and the cup) 

to be set apart by prayer and thanksgiving to the holy use 
for which He has appointed them. 

^ Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 



36 THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION. 



IF If so desired, these Prayers and Thanksgivings may be offered 
in the form following ; the People reverently bowing down: 

r\ GOD, who by the blood of Thy dear Son hast conse- 
^ crated for us a new and a living way into the holiest 
of all ; Cleanse our minds, we beseech Thee, by the inspi- 
ration of Thy Holy Spirit, that, drawing near unto Thee 
with a pure heart and undefiled conscience, we may receive 
these Thy gifts without sin, and worthily magnify Thy 
holy Name ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



Then the People, still bowing down, shall make these responses : 

Minister. The Lord be with you. 

People. And with thy spirit. 

Minister. Lift up your hearts. 

People. We lift them up unto the Lord. 

Minister. Let us give thanks unto the Lord our God. 

People. It is meet mid right so to do. 



IF Then the Minister, proceeding, shall say, 

TT is very meet, right, and our bounden duty, that we 
should, at all times and in all places, give thanks unto 
Thee, O Lord, Holy Father, Almighty and Eternal God, 
for all Thy bounties known and unknown ; but chiefly are 
we bound to praise Thee that Thou hast ransomed us from 
eternal death, and given us the joyful hope of everlasting 
life through Jesus Christ Thy Son, whom Thou didst send 
into the world to suffer death upon the cross for our redemp- 
tion. Thee, God the Father Everlasting : Thee, Only Be- 
gotten Son : Thee, Holy Spirit, the Comforter : Holy, 
Blessed and Glorious Trinity : we confess and praise with 
heart and mouth ; saying, with angels and archangels, and 
all the company of Heaven, 



IF Here let the People, still bowing down, join aloud, singing or 
saying, 

TTOLY, HOLY, HOLY, Lord God of Hosts ; Heaven 
and earth are full of the majesty of Thy glory. Ho- 
sanna in the highest. Blessed is He that cometh in the 
Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. 



THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION. 37 



LMIGHTY God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 



whose once offering up of Himself, by Himself, upon 
the cross, once for all, we commemorate before Thee ; We 
beseech Thee to accept this our spiritual oblation of all 
possible praise for the same. And here we offer and pre- 
sent, O Lord, ourselves, our souls and bodies, to be a rea- 
sonable, holy, and living sacrifice, acceptable unto Thee 
through Jesus Christ Thy Son : 

And we most humbly beseech Thee, Father of all mer- 
cies and God of all comfort, to vouchsafe Thy gracious 
presence, and the effectual working of Thy Spirit in us, 
and so to sanctify these elements both of Bread and Wine, 
and to bless Thine own Ordinance ; that we may receive 
by faith Christ crucified for us, and so feed upon Him, 
that He may be one with us and we with Him ; that He 
may live in us, and we in Him who hath loved us, and 
given Himself for us : 

Even Jesus Christ our Lord ; to whom, with Thee and 
the Holy Ghost, be praise and power, might, majesty, and 
dominion, both now and evermore. Amen. 

The Bread and Wine being thus set apart by Prayer and Thanks- 
giving, the Minister is to take the Bread, and break it, in view 
of the People, saying, 

fWR Lord Jesus Christ, on the same night in which He 
^ was betrayed, having taken Bread, and blessed and 
broken it, gave it to His disciples ; as I, ministering in His 
Name, give this Bread unto you ; saying, Take, eat : this is 
My Body, which is broken for you ; this do in remem- 
brance of Me. 

IT Then the Minister, who is also himself to communicate, is to give 
the Bread to the Elders to be distributed. 

1T After having given the Bread, he shall take the Cup and say, 

A FTER the same manner our Saviour also took the Cup ; 

and having given thanks, as hath been done in His 
Name, He gave it to His disciples, saying, This Cup is 
the New Testament in My Blood, which is shed for many 
for the remission of sins : drink ye all of it. 

IT Then the Minister, who is also to partake of the Cup, shall give 
it to the Elders to be administered. 



H Then the Minister shall proceed, saying, 




38 THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION. 



T After all have communicated, the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

ALMIGHTY and ever-living God, we most heartily 
thank Thee for Thy rich mercy and invaluable good- 
ness, vouchsafed to us in this sacred Communion, wherein 
we have assurance that we are very members of the mys- 
tical body of Thy Son, and heirs through hope of Thine 
everlasting kingdom. And, as we have been made par- 
takers of Christ, so enable us to hold fast that which we 
have received, that no man may take our crown. Help 
us, we beseech Thee, to bear about with us continually the 
dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus may be 
made manifest in our mortal body ; and grant that we may 
remain alway in the holy fellowship of all faithful people, 
with whom in the unity of the Spirit, we now make our 
intercessions unto Thee : 

O Lord, save Thy people and bless Thine inheritance : 
feed them also, and lift them up for ever. Remember, O 
Lord, Thy congregation, which Thou hast purchased of 
old : pour out Thy Spirit as floods upon the dry ground, 
and refresh Thy waiting heritage. Let Thy priests be 
clothed with righteousness, and let Thy saints shout for 
joy. Show Thy mercy also unto them that are afar off, and 
gather all the lost sheep into Thy fold ; for the sake of 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IV/TOST merciful God, we bless Thy holy Name for all 
1t1_ servants who have kept the faith, and, having 
accomplished their warfare, are at rest with Thee. We 
pray Thee to enable us so to follow their good example, 
that we with them may finally be partakers of Tby hea- 
venly kingdom, and, at the glorious appearing of our 
Saviour Jesus Christ, may behold Him with unveiled face, 
being changed into His likeness ; when He shall present us, 
with all His Church, faultless before the presence of His 
glory with exceeding joy. Hear us, O heavenly Father, 
for His sake : to whom, with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be 
glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

1 Then the People shall rise and sing 
A Hymn. 



THE CELEBRATION OF THE COMMUNION. 39 



f Then, the People reverently bowing down, the Minister shall pro- 
nounce 

The Benediction. 

MOW the God of peace, that brought again from the 
dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 
through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you 
perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you 
that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus 
Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

H After the Benediction it is fitting that the Communicants remain 
in silent prayer, beseeching God that none may leave His Table 
without a blessing. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM 
TO INFANTS. 

% Baptism is not to be unnecessarily delayed ; nor to be adminis- 
tered in any case by any private person ; but by a Minister of 
Christ, called to be the steward of the mysteries of God. — Direc- 
tory for Worship, Chap, viii, § 1. 

U Although Baptism is usually to be administered in the church, 
in the presence of the congregation; yet there may be cases 
when it will be expedient to administer this Sacrament in pri- 
vate houses ; of which the Minister is to be the judge. — Direc- 
tory for Worship, Chap, viii, § 5. 

f After previous notice is given to the Minister, the Child to be 
baptized is to be presented to him by one or both the parents, 
whom the Minister shall address in this wise : 

T^EARLY beloved, Almighty God, who has called us 
into His Church, has promised to be our God, and also 
the God and Father of our children; which covenant He 
renews in this Sacrament of Baptism, given to us and to 
our children, as a sign and seal of the washing away of 
our sins and our ingrafting into Christ. St. Paul assures 
us that the children of the faithful are to be numbered 
among the holy people of God. Our Saviour also, in the 
Gospel, calls the children unto Him, and blesses them, say- 
ing : Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid 
them not: for of such is the Kingdom of God. 

Forasmuch as you desire and claim these blessings for 
your Child, you will now engage, on your part, to perform 
those things which God requires of you, that the good will 
and pleasure of your Heavenly Father may not be hidden 
from your Child. 

H Here the Minister shall address the following Questions to the 
Parents ; and the Parents, each of them, shall make answer : 

Question. Do you accept, for yourself and for your 
Child, the covenant of God, and therein con- 
secrate your Child to Him ? 

Answer. I do. 



ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM TO INFANTS. 41 



Question, Do you promise to instruct your Child in the 
principles of our holy religion, as contained in 
the Scriptures, to pray with him and for him, 
and to bring him up in the nurture and ad- 
monition of the Lord ? 

Answer. I do. 

U Then the Minister shall say, 

/?J.RANT, O Lord, to these Thy servants grace to perform 
" the things which they have promised before Thee : 

And sanctify with Thy Spirit this Child now to be bap- 
tized according to Thy Word ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

If Then, all present reverently standing, the Minister shall say to 
the Parents, 

What is the name of this Child ? 

IT Then the Minister (taking the Child in his arms, or leaving it in 
the arms of the Parent), pronouncing the name of the Child, 
shall pour or sprinkle water upon it, saying, 

, I baptize thee in the Name of the Father, and of 

the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. 

IT Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

"IV/TOST holy and merciful Father, we give Thee hearty 
thanks that Thou hast numbered us amongst Thy 
people, and dost also call our children unto Thee, marking 
them with this Sacrament, as a singular token and badge of 
Thy love. Wherefore, we beseech Thee to confirm Thy fa- 
vour more and more toward us, and to take into Thy tuition 
and defense this Child, whom we offer and present unto Thee 
with common supplications. Grant that he may know 
Thee his merciful Father, through Thy Holy Spirit working 
in his heart, and that he may not be ashamed to confess the 
faith of Christ crucified ; but may continue His faithful sol- 
dier and servant, and so prevail against evil that in the end 
he may obtain the victory, and be exalted into the liberty 
of Thy kingdom ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



42 ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM TO INFANTS. 



% Then the Minister and People may say together the Lord's 
Prayer, if the same is not said in the Service immediately pre- 
ceding or following. 

The Lord's Prayer. 

OUR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 

H Then the Minister shall say, 

HPHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
-■- and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you 
all. Amen. 

H Infants descending from parents, either both or but one of them 
prof essing faith in Christ and obedience to Him, are within the 
covenant of promise, and are to be baptized. —Larger Cate- 
chism, 166. 

IT The effica cy of Baptism is not tied to that moment of time wherein 
it is administered; yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of 
this Sacrament the grace promised is not only offered, but really 
exhibited and conferred by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of 
age or infants) as that grace belongeth unto, according to the 
counsel of God's own will, in His appointed time. Grace and 
salvation are, however, not so inseparably annexed unto Bap- 
tism as that none can be regenerated or saved without it, or 
that all that are baptized are undoubtedly regenerated. — Con- 
fession of Faith, Chap, xxviii, §§ 5, 6. 

IF When, by death of the parents or otherwise, children are re- 
moved from their custody, the guardian or other person who 
has undertaken to rear them may present them for Baptism, 
provided he possess the qualificatio?is requisite for having [his 
own children baptized, and is willing to assume the obligations 
made by parents in the foregoing service. — Minutes of the 
Synod of 1786. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM 
TO ADULTS 

AND THEIR RECEPTION TO THE LORD'S SUPPER. 

H When unbaptized persons apply for admission into the Church, 
they shall, in ordinary cases, after giving satisfaction with re- 
spect to their knowledge and piety, make a public profession of 
their faith in the presence of the congregation ; and thereupon 
be baptized. — Directory for Worship, Chap, x, § 4. 

% The Candidates appearing before the Minister, he shall say, 

XTEAR the Words of the Institution of this holy Sacra- 
ment, as delivered by our Lord and Saviour to His dis- 
ciples, before His ascension to the right hand of God : 

"All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. 
Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in 
the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy 
Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I 
have commanded you:. and, lo, I am with you alway, even 
unto the end of the world." 

Hence St. Peter, on the day of Pentecost, called upon the 
people, saying, ''Repent, and be baptized, every one of 
you, in the Name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, 
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the 
promise is unto you. and to your children, and to all that 
are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall 
call." 

Doubt ye not, therefore, but earnestly believe, that He 
will number among His people these present Persons, truly 
repenting and coming unto Him by faith, and that this Bap- 
tism with water in His Name shall be unto them the sign 
and seal of the washing away of their sins, their engrafting 
into Christ, their regeneration by His Holy Spirit, and their 
engagement to be the Lord's. 



44 ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM TO ADULTS. 

T The Minister shall then say to the Persons to be baptized, and 
each one shall answer, as follows : 

T^EARLY beloved, who are come hither desiring to be 
baptized, you are now faithfully, for your part, in the 
presence of God and this congregation, to promise and an- 
swer to the following Questions. 

Question. Do you receive and profess the Christian 
faith, and in this faith do you desire to be 
baptized ? 

Answer. I do. 

Question. Do you confess your sins, and turn from them 
with godly sorrow, and put all your trust 
in the mercy of God, which is in Christ 
Jesus ; and do you promise in His strength 
to lead a sober, righteous, and godly life ? 

Answer. I do. 



% The Question here following is to be omitted at this point in 
case this Order of Baptism is used in connection with that 
for the Confirmation of Baptismal Vows. 

Question. Now desiring to be received to the Lord's 
Supper, do you promise to make diligent 
use of the means of grace, submitting 
yourself to the lawful authority and guid- 
ance of the Church, and continuing in the 
peace and fellowship of the people of God ? 

Answer. I do. 



IT Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

E beseech Thee, O Lord, that it may please Thee to 
receive, and to sanctify with Thy Spirit, these Persons 
now to be baptized according to Thy Word ; that they may 
obtain the fulness of Thy grace, and ever remain in the 
number of Thy faithful " children ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 



ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM TO ADULTS. 45 



f Then, all present reverently standing, the Person to be baptized 
will kneel down, and the Minister, pronouncing his name, shall 
pour or sprinkle water upon his forehead, saying, 

"VT , I baptize thee in the Name of the Father, and of 

the Son, and of the Holy Ghost Amen. 

IT Then the Minister shall say, 

T^E receive this Person into the congregation of Christ's 
' * flock ; in the confidence that he shall never be ashamed 
to confess the faith of Christ crucified, and to continue 
Christ's faithful soldier and servant unto his life's end. 



U Here, if Persons who have been baptized in infancy are to be 
received to the Lord's Supper, they may be called to come 
forward; and the Minister, omitting the remainder of this 
Order, may proceed with the Order for the Confirmation of 
Baptismal Vows the newly baptized persons still standing in 
their places before him. 



1T Then the Minister {laying his hand, if such be his discretion, 
upon the head of every one in order kneeling before him) shall 
say, 

T^EFEND, O Lord, this Thy Child with Thy heavenly 
*J grace ; that he may continue Thine for ever ; and daily 
increase in Thy Holy Spirit more and more, until he come 
unto Thy everlasting kingdom. Amen. 

Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, we give Thee 
hearty thanks and praise that Thou hast not withheld 
Thy loving kindness from these Thy servants, but hast 
given them shelter within the covenant of Thy peace, and 
makest them to sit down at Thy Table. We entreat Thee 
of Thy great mercy to perfect in them the good w T ork Thou 
hast begun ; that they, being defended by Thy fatherly 
hand, and strengthened with power through Thy Spirit in 
the inward man, may be enabled to keep this covenant 
without spot, unrebukable, until the day of the appearing 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 



46 ADMINISTRATION OF BAPTISM TO ADULTS. 



XTOW unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, 
and to present you faultless before the presence of His 
glory with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our Sav- 
iour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now 
and ever. Amen. 

H Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the vis- 
ible Church, and so strangers from the covenant of promise, 
till they pro/ess their faith in Christ and obedience to Him. — 
Larger Catechism, 166. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE CONFIRMATION OF BAPTISMAL 

VOWS 



RECEPTION TO THE LORD'S SUPPER. 



U At the time appointed, the Minister shall say, 

rpHESE Persons now to be named, who are baptized chil- 
dren of the Church, ham been examined, and approved 
by the Session as to their knowledge and piety, and now 
present themselves publicly to confirm the vows made for 
them in Baptism. 

f The Minister shall then read their names, and they will come 
forward, and stand before him. 



IT Then addressing them, the Minister shall say, 

TP^EARLY beloved, in your Baptism you received the sign 
and seal of your engrafting into Christ, and were sol- 
emnly engaged to be the Lord's. And forasmuch as you 
now desire to confirm the covenant then made in your 
behalf, and to obey His commandment by confessing Him 
before men, you are to make answer faithfully to the fol- 
lowing Questions. 



Question. 



A nswer. 
Question. 



Answer. 



Do you here, in the presence of God and this 
congregation, confess Christ as your Lord, 
and adhere to that Christian faith wherein 
you were baptized ? 
I do. 

Do you ratify and confirm the vows of your 
Baptism, and promise with God's help to serve 
the Lord, and keep His commandments all 
the days of your life ? 
I do. 



48 THE CONFIRMATION OF BAPTISMAL VOWS. 



If Here, if any Adults have been baptized at the same Sendee, the 
Minister shall address the following Question to them as well 
as to those who were baptized in infancy, and they shall be 
included in the following parts of this Order. 



Question. Now desiring to be received to the Lord's 
Supper, do you promise to make diligent use 
of the means of grace, submitting yourself 
to the lawful authority and guidance of the 
Church, and continuing in the peace and 
fellowship of the people of God ? 

Answer. I do. 

U Then the Minister {laying his hand, if such be his discretion, 
upon the head of every one in order kneeling before him) shall 
say, 

T^EFEND, O Lord, this Thy Child with Thy heavenly 
grace ; that lie may continue Thine for ever ; and daily 
increase in Thy Holy Spirit more and more, until he come 
unto Thy everlasting kingdom. Amen. 

Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, we give Thee 
hearty thanks and praise that Thou hast not withheld 
Thy loving kindness from these Thy servants, but hast 
given them shelter within the covenant of Thy peace, and 
makest them to sit down at Thy Table. We entreat Thee 
of Thy great mercy to perfect in them the good work Thou 
hast begun ; that they, being defended by Thy fatherly 
hand, and strengthened with power through Thy Spirit in 
the inward man, may be enabled to keep this covenant 
without spot, unrebukable, until the day of the appearing 
of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 

1^"OW unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, 
and to present you faultless before the presence of His 
glory with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our Sav- 
iour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now 
and ever. Amen. 



THE CONFIRMATION OF BAPTISMAL VOWS. 49 



U Children born within the pale of the visible Church, and dedi- 
cated to God in Baptism, are under the inspection and govern- 
ment of the Church; and are to be taught to read and repeat 
the Catechism, the Apostles' Creed, and the Lord's Prayer. 
They are to be taught to pray, to abhor sin, to fear God, and to 
obey the Lord Jesus Christ. And when they come to years of 
discretion, if they be free from scandal, appear sober and 
steady, and to have sufficient knowledge to discern the Lord's 
body, they ought to be informed it is their duty and privilege 
to come to the Lord's Supper. — Directory for Worship, Chap, 
x, § 1. 

1T The years of discretion in young Christians cannot be precisely 
fixed. This must be left to the prudence of the eldership. The 
Officers of the church are the judges of the qualifications of those 
to be admitted to sealing ordinances, and of the time when it is 
proper to admit young Christians to them. — Directory for 
Worship, Chap, x, § 2. 

H A public Service for the reception of baptized p>ersons to the Com- 
munion is not to be regarded as a, part of either Sacrament, 
nor as an invariable condition of their admission to the Lord's 
Supper, but simply as a method advisable in ordinary cases; 
the occasions when it may be necessary or proper to use some 
other method being left to the prudence and judgment of the 
Officers of the church. 



AN ORDER FOR 

THE RECEPTION OF COMMUNICANTS 
FROM OTHER CHURCHES. 

If This Order may be used after the close of the two Services im- 
mediately Receding, or at a Service preparatory to the Com- 
munion. 

1f If Communicants are received from other Churches, the Minis- 
ter may read their names, and, bidding them r ise, may address 
them, saying : 

"FiEARLY beloved, Having before made public confes- 
sion of your faith in Christ, and having voluntarily 
transferred to this church your covenant relation of mem- 
bership ; you now promise to wait diligently upon its or- 
dinances, to study its peace and prosperity, and to yield 
becoming submission to its government and discipline. 

If Then the Minister may bid all the Members of the church to 
rise, and speaking for them, he shall say, 

TN the Name of the Lord Jesus, we, the Officers and Mem- 
bers of this church, bid you welcome to its fellowship 
and to its covenant privileges. We promise to watch over 
you and seek your welfare in the Lord. And we pray 
God that all of us, being united in the faith, may be pre- 
served blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE SOLEMNIZATION OF MARRIAGE. 



IT Forasmuch as Marriage is a sacred relation t the ground of 
human fellowship and society, and most precious to mankind; 
although it be not a Sacrament nor peculiar to the Church of 
Christ, it is proper that it be solemnized by a laivful Minister, 
that he may give counsel from the Word of God to those enter- 
ing holy wedlock, and invoke the Divine blessing upon them. 

If The Persons to be married shall present themselves before the 
Minister, the Woman standing at the left hand of the Man. 
Then, all present reverently standing, the Minister shall say, 

"P^EARLY beloved, we are assembled here in the presence 
^ of God, to join this Man and this Woman in holy Mar- 
riage ; which is instituted of God, regulated by His com- 
mandments, blessed by our Lord Jesus Christ, and to be 
held in honour among all men. Let us therefore reverently 
remember that God has established and sanctified Mar- 
riage, for the welfare and happiness of mankind. Our Sav- 
iour has declared that a man shall forsake his father and 
mother and cleave unto his wife. By His apostles, He has 
instructed those who enter into this relation to cherish a 
mutual esteem and love; to bear with each other's infirmi- 
ties and weaknesses ; to comfort each other in sickness, 
trouble, and sorrow ; in honesty and industry to provide 
for each other, and for their household, in temporal things ; 
to pray for and encourage each other in the things which 
pertain to God ; and to live together as the heirs of the 
grace of life. 

Forasmuch as these two Persons have come hither to be 
made one in this holy estate, if there be any here present 
who knows any just cause why they may not lawfully be 
joined in Marriage, I require him .now to make it known, 
or ever after to hold his peace. 



52 THE SOLEMNIZATION OF MARRIAGE. 



IF Then, speaking unto the Persons who are to be married, he shall 
say, 

T CHARGE you both, before the great God the Searcher 
of all hearts, that if either of you know any impediment, 
why ye may not lawfully be joined together in Marriage, 
ye do now confess it. For be ye w r ell assured that if any 
persons are joined together otherwise than as God's Word 
allows, their union is not blessed by Him. 



If Then, if no impediment appear, the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY and ever blessed God, whose Presence is 
^ the happiness of every condition, and whose favour 
sweetens every relation; We beseech Thee to be present 
and favourable unto these Thy servants, that they may be 
truly joined in the honourable estate of Marriage, in the cov- 
enant of their God. As Thou hast brought them together 
by Thy providence, sanctify them by Thy Spirit, giving 
them a new frame of heart fit for their new estate ; and en- 
rich them with all grace, whereby they may enjoy the 
comforts, undergo tlie cares, endure the trials, and per- 
form the duties of life together as becometh Christians, 
under Thy heavenly guidance and protection ; through our 
Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 



H Then the Minister shall say to the Man, 

]\T , wilt thou have this Woman to be thy wife, and 

wilt thou pledge thy troth to her, in all love and 
honour, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, 
to live with her, and cherish her, according to the ordinance 
of God, in the holy bond of Marriage ? 



The Man shall answer, 
I will. 



THE SOLEMNIZATION OF MARRIAGE. 53 



1 Then the Minister shall say to the Woman, 

, wilt thou have this Man to be thy husband, and 

wilt thou pledge thy troth to him, in all love and 
honour, in all duty and service, in all faith and tenderness, 
to live with him, and cherish him, according to the ordi- 
nance of God, in the holy bond of Marriage ? 



HO giveth this Woman to be married to this Man ? 



IF Then the father, (or guardian or any friend,) of the Woman 
shall put her right hand into the hand of the Minister, tvho 
shall ea,use the Man with his right hand to take the Woman by 
her right hand and to say after him as follows : 

T M., take thee N., To be my wedded wife; And I do 
promise and covenant, Before God and these witnesses, 
To be thy loving and faithful husband, In plenty and in 
want, In joy and in sorrow, In sickness and in health, As 
long as we both shall live. 

H Then shall they loose their hands; and the Woman with her 
right hand taking the Man by his right hand, shall likewise say 
after the Minister : 

T N., take thee M., To be my wedded husband ; And I do 
promise and covenant, Before God and these witnesses, 
To be thy loving and faithful wife, In plenty and in want, 
In joy and in sorrow, In sickness and in health, As long as 
we both shall live. 

1! Then, if a Ring be provided, it shall be given to the Minister, who 
shall return it to the Man, tvho shall then put it upon the fourth 
finger of the Woman's left hand, saying after the Minister, 



The Woman shall answer, 



I will. 



H Then the Minister may say, 




HIS Ring I give thee, In token and pledge, Of our con- 
stant faith, And abiding love. 



54 THE SOLEMNIZATION OF MARRIAGE. 



IT Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

"TV/TOST merciful and gracious God, of whom the whole 
family in heaven and earth is named ; Bestow upon 
these Thy servants the seal of Thine approval, and Thy 
fatherly benediction: granting unto them grace to fulfil, 
with pure and steadfast affection, the vow and covenant 
between them made. Guide them together, we beseech 
Thee, in the way of righteousness and peace, that loving 
and serving Thee, with one heart and mind, all the days 
of their life, they may be abundantly enriched with the 
tokens of Thine everlasting favour, in Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

/^UR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
^ Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil: For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 

IF Then shall the Minister say unto all who are 'present, 

TDY the authority committed unto me as a Minister of the 
Church of Christ, I declare that M. and N. are now 
Husband and Wife, according to the ordinance of God, and 
the law of the State : in the Name of the Father, and of the 
Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen. 

IT Then, causing the Husband and Wife to join their right hands, 
the Minister shall say, 

Y\^HOM therefore God hath joined together, let no man 
' ' put asunder. 

IT And the Minister shall pronounce this Blessing : 

The Lord bless you and keep you : The Lord make His 
face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you : 

The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you 
peace : 

Both now and in the life everlasting. Amen. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 

IT When all are assembled in the house or in the church, the Min- 
ister shall begin the Service with one or more of these Sen- 
tences from the Holy Scriptures. 

OUR help is in the Name of the Lord, who made heaven 
" and earth. {Psalm cxxiv. 8.) 

Tj^OR we are strangers before Thee and sojourners, as 
were all our fathers : our days on the earth are as a 
shadow, and there is none abiding. (1 Chronicles xxix. 15.) 

A JjL flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as 
the flower of the field : the grass withereth, the flower 
fadeth : but the word of our God shall stand for ever. 
(Isaiah xl. 6-8.) 

T IKE as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth 
them that fear Him. For He knoweth our frame ; He 
remembereth that we are dust. {Psalm ciii. 13, 14.) 

T AM the Resurrection, and the Life : he that believe th 
in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live : and 
whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die. 
(St. John xi. 25, 26. ) 

IT Then let the Minister say, 

Let. us pray. 

H Then shall he lead the People in the Invocation, using if he will 
one of the following Prayers, and ending with the Lord's 
Prayer. 

A LMIGHTY God, the Fountain of all wisdom, who 
^ knowest our necessities before we ask and our igno- 
rance in asking ; We beseech Thee to have compassion 
upon our infirmities ; and those things, which for our un- 
worthiness we dare not and for our blindness we cannot 
ask, vouchsafe to give us, for the worthiness of Thy Son, 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



56 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, who art our Re- 
fuge and Strength, and a very present Help in time 
of trouble ; Enable us, we pray Thee, to put our trust in 
Thee, and seeing that we have an High Priest who is 
touched with the feeling of our infirmities, may we come 
boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, 
and find grace to help in this time of need ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

/"\UR Father in heaven, whose pity is infinite and whose 
" will is sovereign ; Be pleased to look down upon our 
sorrow, and for the sake of Thy dear Son, enable us so to 
hear Thy holy Word, that through patience and comfort 
of the Scriptures we may have hope; and grant us the con- 
solation of Thy Holy Spirit, that we, humbly acknow- 
ledging our many sins, may nevertheless hold fast the as- 
surance of Thy mercy and the blessed hope of everlasting 
life, through Him who died and rose again and ever liveth 
with Thee, even Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

fiUR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
^ Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil: For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 



IF Then let one or more of the following Psalms be chanted or 
read, closing with the Gloria Patri : 



ORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of 



my days, what it is : that I may know how frail I am. 
Behold, thou hast made my days as a handbreadth ; and 
mine age is as nothing before thee : verily every man at 
his best state is altogether vanity. 

Surely every man walketh in a vain show ; surely they 
are disquieted in vain: he heapeth up riches, and knoweth 
not who shall gather them. 

And now, Lord, what wait I for : my hope is in thee. 



Psalm xxxix. 4-13. 




THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 57 



Deliver me from all my transgressions : make me not the 
reproach of the foolish. 

I was dumb, I opened not inv mouth : because thou didst 

it. 

Remove thy stroke away from me : I am consumed by 
the blow of thine hand. 

When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, 
thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: 
surely every man is vanity. 

Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear unto my cry ; 
hold not thy peace at my tears : for I am a stranger with 
thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were. 

O spare me, that I may recover strength : before I go 
hence, and be no more. 

Psalm xc. 

T ORD, thou hast been our dwelling place : in all genera- 
tions. 

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world : even from everlasting 
to everlasting, thou art God. 

Thou turnest man to destruction : and sayest, Return, ye 
children of men. 

For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday 
when it is past : and as a watch in the night. 

Thou earnest them away as with a flood ; they are as a 
sleep : in the morning they are like grass which groweth 
up. 

In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up : in the 
evening it is cut down, and withereth. 

For we are consumed by thine anger : and by thy wrath 
are we troubled. 

Thou hast set our iniquities before thee : our secret sins 
in the light of thy countenance. 

For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we spend 
our years as a tale that is told. 

The days of our years are threescore years and ten ; and 
if by reason of strength they be fourscore years : yet is 
their strength labour and sorrow ; for it is soon cut off, and 
we fly away. 

Who knoweth the power of thine anger : even according 
to thy fear, so is thy wrath. 



58 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



So teach us to number our days : that we may apply our 
hearts unto wisdom. 

Return, O Lord, how long : and let it repent thee concern- 
ing thy servants. 

O satisf}^ us early with thy mercy : that we may rejoice 
and be glad all our days. 

Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast 
afflicted us : and the years wherein we have seen evil. 

Let thy work appear unto thy servants : and thy glory 
unto their children. 

And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us : and 
establish thou the work of our hands upon us ; yea, the work 
of our hands establish thou it. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 

At the Burial of a Child. 
Psalm cm. 13-18. 
T IKE as a father pitieth his children : so the Lord pitieth 
them that fear him. 
For he knoweth our frame : he remembereth that we are 
dust. 

As for man, his days are as grass : as a flower of the field, 
so he flourisheth. 

For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone: and the 
place thereof shall know it no more. 

But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to ever- 
lasting upon them that fear him: and his righteousness 
unto children's children ; 

To such as keep his covenant : and to those that remem- 
ber his commandments to do them. 

Psalm cxxx. 

/^UT of the depths have I cried : unto thee, O Lord. 

^ Lord, hear my voice : let Thine ears be attentive to 

the voice of my supplications. 

If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities : O Lord, who 
shall stand ? 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



59 



But there is forgiveness with thee : that thou may est be 
feared. 

I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait : and in his word 
do I hope. 

My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch 
for the morning : I say, more than they that watch for the 
morning. 

Let Israel hope in the Lord : for with the Lord there is 
mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. 
And he shall redeem Israel : from all his iniquities. 

Psalm xxiii. 
HP HE Lord is my shepherd : I shall not want. 
-■- He maketh me to lie down in green pastures : he leadeth 
me beside the still waters. 

He restoreth my soul : he leadeth me in the paths of 
righteousness for his name's sake. 

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of 
death, I will fear no evil : for thou art with me ; thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me. 

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine 
enemies : thou anointest my head with oil ; my cup run- 
neth over. 

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days 
of my life : and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for 
ever. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 

II If so desired, a Hymn or Anthem may here be sung. 

H Then let the Minister read one of the following Lessons from 
the Holy Scriptures, and before the reading let him say, Hear 
the Word of God as written for our admonition and comfort. 

1 Corinthians xv. 20-28 ; 35-58. 
XTOW is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first- 
fruits of them that slept. For since by man came 
death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For 
as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 




60 THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



But every man in his own order : Christ the first-fruits ; 
afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 

Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up 
the kingdom to God, even the Father ; when he shall have 
put down all rule, and all authority and power. For he 
must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The 
last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath 
put all things under his feet. But when he saith, All things 
are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which 
did put all things under him. And when all things shall 
be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be 
subject unto him that put all things under him, that God 
may be all in all. 

But some man will say, How are the dead raised up ? and 
with what body do they come ? Thou fool, that which thou 
sowest is not quickened, except it die. And that which 
thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but 
bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain : 
but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to 
every seed his own body. All flesh is not the same flesh : 
but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, 
another of fishes, and another of birds. There are also 
celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial : but the glory of the 
celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 
There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, 
and another glory of the stars ; for one star differeth from 
another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the 
dead. It is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption : 
it is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory: it is sown in 
weakness, it is raised in power: it is sown a natural body, 
it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and 
there is a spiritual body. And so it is written, The first man 
Adam was made a living soul ; the last Adam was made 
a quickening spirit. Howbeit that was not first which is 
spiritual, but that which is natural ; and afterward that 
wmich is spiritual. The first man is of the earth, earthy ; 
the second man is the Lord from heaven. As is the earthy, 
such are they also that are earthy ; and as is the heavenly, 
such are they also that are heavenly. And as we have 
borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image 
of the heavenly. Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and 
blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God ; neither doth 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 61 



corruption inherit incorruption. Behold, I show you a mys- 
tery ; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 
in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump : 
for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised 
incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corrupt- 
ible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put 
on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put 
on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immor- 
tality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is writ- 
ten, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is 
thy sting ? grave, where is thy victory ? The sting 
of death is sin ; and the strength of sin is the law. But 
thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our 
Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye 
steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of 
the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in 
vain in the Lord. 

IT Or this: 

St. John xiv. 1-3, 15-20, 25-27; 1 Thessalonians 
iv. 13, and v. 1-11 
T ET not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe 
also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions ; 
if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a 
place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, 
I will come again, and receive you unto myself ; that where 
I am, there ye may be also. 

If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will 
pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, 
that he may abide with you for ever ; even the Spirit of 
truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth 
him not, neither knoweth him : but ye know him ; for he 
dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave 
you comfortless : I will come to you. Yet a little while, 
and the world seeth me no more ; but ye see me : because 
I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that 
I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. 

These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present 
with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, 
whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you 
all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, what- 



62 THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



soever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my 
peace I give unto you : not as the world giveth, give I 
unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be 
afraid. 

T WOULD not have you to be ignorant, brethren, con- 
cerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even 
as others which have no hope. For if we believe that 
Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep 
in Jesus w r ill God bring with him. For this we say unto 
you by the word of the Lord, that w r e which are alive and 
remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent 
them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend 
from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, 
and with the trump of God ; and the dead in Christ shall 
rise first : then we which are alive and remain shall be 
caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the 
Lord in the air : and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 
Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 

But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no 
need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly, 
that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 
For w T hen they shall say, Peace and safety ; then sudden 
destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman 
with child ; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, 
are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a 
thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of 
the day : we are not of the night, nor of darkness. There- 
fore let us not sleep, as do others ; but let us watch and be 
sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night ; and they 
that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who 
are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith 
and love ; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For 
God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation 
by our Lord Jesus Christ, w r ho died for us, that, whether we 
wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Where- 
fore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, 
even as also ye do. 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



63 



IT Or this: 

Revelation xxi. 1-4, 22-27 ; xxn. 1-7. 
A ND I saw a new heaven and a new earth : for the first 
heaven and the first earth were passed away; and 
there was no more sea. 

And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming 
down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned 
for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven, 
saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he 
will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God 
himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God 
shall wipe away all tears from their eyes ; and there shall 
be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall 
there be any more pain : for the former things are passed 
away. 

And I saw no temple therein : for the Lord God Almighty 
and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no 
need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it : for the 
glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light 
thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall 
walk in the light of it : and the kings of the earth do bring 
their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall 
not be shut at all by day : for there shall be no night there. 
And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations 
into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it anything 
that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or 
maketh a lie ; but they which are written in the Lamb's 
book of life. 

And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as 
crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the 
Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side 
of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve 
manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month : and 
the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. 
And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God 
and of the Lamb shall be in it ; and his servants shall serve 
him : And they shall see his face ; and his name shall be in 
their foreheads. And there shall be no night there ; and 
they need no candle, neither light of the sun ; for the Lord 
God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and 
ever. And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and 



04 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel 
to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly 
be done. 

Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the 
sayings of the prophecy of this book. 

At the Burial of a Child. 

2 Samuel xii. 16-23. 
TVWID therefore besought God for the child ; and David 
fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth. 
And the elders of his house arose, and went to him, to raise 
him up from the earth : but he would not, neither did he 
eat bread with them. 

And it came to pass on the seventh day, that the child 
died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that 
the child was dead : for they said, Behold, while the child 
was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not 
hearken unto our voice : how will he then vex himself, if 
we tell him that the child is dead ? But when David saw 
that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child 
was dead : therefore David said unto his servants, Is the 
child dead ? and they said, He is dead. Then David arose 
from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and 
changed his apparel, and came into the house of the Lord, 
and worshipped : then he came to his own house ; and 
when he required, they set bread before him, and he did 
eat. Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this 
that thou hast done ? thou didst fast and weep for the child, 
while it was alive ; but when the child was dead, thou 
didst rise and eat bread. And he said, While the child was 
yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell 
whether God will be gracious to me, that the child may 
live ? But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast ? can I 
bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not 
return to me. 

St. Mark x. 13-16. 
A ND they brought young children to him, that he 
should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those 
that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much 
displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



65 



come unto me, and forbid them not : for of such is the 
kingdom of God. Yerily I say unto you, Whosoever shall 
not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall 
not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, put 
his hands upon them, and blessed them. 

Revelation xxii. 4; vn. 16-17. 
A ND they shall see his face ; and his name shall be in 
their foreheads. 
They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more ; 
neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the 
Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, 
and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters : and 
God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. 



H And at the close of the reading from the Holy Scriptures the 
Minister may say, 

rpHE Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away : blessed be 
^~ the Name of the Lord. 



H If it be thought desirable, an Address may here be made. 

U Then a Hymn may be sung, or may be read by the Minister. 

f Then the People, standing, may join with the Minister in their 
Confession of Faith. 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 
^ and earth: 

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary, 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and 
buried ; [He descended into hell;*] The third day He rose 
again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From 
thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The Holy Catholic Church ; 
The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The 
Resurrection of the body ; and the Life everlasting. Amen. 



* Or, He continued in the state of the dead, and under the power 
of death, until the third day. 



66 THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



If Then let the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 

H The Minister may, if he so desire, use any of the following 
Prayers, ordering the same with discretion, and having regard 
unto the 'present circumstances. 

For Resignation. 
C\ LORD God, our heavenly Father, who alone art the Au- 
^ thor and the Disposer of our life, from whom our spirits 
have come, and to whom they shall return ; We acknow- 
ledge Thy sovereign power and right both to give and to 
take away, as seemeth good in Thy sight ; and we most 
humbly beseech Thee, that unto all Thy righteous deal- 
ings we may yield ourselves with due resignation and pa- 
tience ; being assured that though we understand not the 
mystery of Thy ways, yet always in faithfulness, O Lord, 
dost Thou afflict us, and for Thy mercy's sake ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For those Bereaved. 
A LMIGHTY and most merciful God, the Consolation of 
^ the sorrowful, and the Support of the weary, who dost 
not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men ; Look 
down in tender love and pity, we beseech Thee, upon Thy 
bereaved servants, whose joy is turned into mourning ; so 
that, while they mourn, they may not murmur, or faint 
under Thy rod ; but, remembering all Thy mercies, Thy 
promises, and Thy love in Christ, may resign themselves 
meekly into Thy hands, to be taught and disciplined by 
Thee. Convert them wholly to Thyself, and fill their des- 
olate hearts with Thy love, that they may cleave more 
closely to Thee, who bringest life out of death, and who 
canst turn their grief into eternal joy ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

For the Right Use op Affliction. 
C\ GOD, whose days are without end, and whose mercies 
^ cannot be numbered ; Make us, we beseech Thee, 
deeply sensible of the shortness and uncertainty of human 
life, and let Thy Holy Spirit lead us through this present 
world in holiness and righteousness all the days of our 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 67 



lives ; that, when we shall have served Thee in our gener- 
ation, we may be gathered unto our fathers, having the 
testimony of a good conscience ; in the communion of Thy 
holy Church ; in the confidence of a certain faith ; in the 
comfort of a reasonable, religious and holy hope ; in favour 
with Thee, our God ; and in perfect charity with the 
world. All which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

For Comfort. 

f \ LORD Jesus Christ, we beseech Thee to comfort these 
" Thy servants in their present sorrow ; and as Thou 
didst send the Holy Ghost to be the Comforter of Thy 
people ; strengthen them by the manifestation of His gra- 
cious indwelling, that they may be enabled to contemplate 
the joy of that better home, where Thou art ever seen and 
worshipped as the Light and Satisfaction of Thine elect, 
who dwellest with the Father, in the unity of the same 
Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen. 

For the Comfort of Christ's Presence. 

f\ LORD Jesus Christ, who Thyself didst weep beside the 
" grave, and art touched with the feeling of our sorrows; 
Fulfil now Thy promise that Thou wilt not leave Thy 
people comfortless, but wilt come to them. Reveal Thy- 
self unto Thine afflicted servants, and cause them to hear 
Thee saying, "I am the Resurrection and the Life." Help 
them, O Lord, to turn to Thee with true discernment, and 
to abide in Thee through living faith; that, finding now 
the comfort of Thy presence, they may have also a sure 
confidence in Thee for all that is to come: until the day 
break, and these shadows flee away. Hear us for Thy 
great mercy's sake, O Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

At the Burial of a Child. 

1VTOST merciful Father, who hast hastened to take unto 
Thyself the soul of this child ; Grant to us who are 
still in our pilgrimage, and who walk as yet by faith, that 
having served Thee with constancy on earth, we may be 
joined hereafter with Thy blessed children in glory ever- 
lasting ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



68 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



In Remembrance of God's Grace to the Departed. 



GOD, who art the Strength of Thy saints and who 



^ redeemest the souls of Thy servants ; We bless Thy 
Name for all those who have died in the Lord, and who now 
rest from their labours, having received the end of their 
faith, even the salvation of their souls. Especially we call 
to remembrance Thy loving-kindness and Thy tender 
mercies to this Thy servant. For all Thy goodness that 
withheld not Ids portion in the joys of this earthly life, and 
for Thy guiding hand along the way of his pilgrimage; 
we give Thee thanks and praise. Especially we bless Thee 
for Thy grace that kindled in Ms heart the love of Thy 
dear Name ; that enabled Mm to fight the good fight, to 
endure unto the end, and to obtain the victory ; yea, to 
become more than conqueror, through Him that loveth us. 
We magnify Thy holy Name that Ms trials and tempta- 
tions being ended, sickness and death being passed, with 
all the dangers and difficulties of this mortal life, Ms spirit 
is at home in Thy presence, at whose right hand dwelleth 
eternal peace. And grant, O Lord, we beseech Thee, that 
we who rejoice in the triumph of Thy saints may profit by 
their example, that becoming followers of their faith and 
patience, we also may enter with them into an inheritance 
incorruptible and undefiled, and that fadeth not away ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Grace to Imitate the Righteous Dead. 

A LMIGHTY and ever-living God, we yield unto Thee 
^ most high praise and hearty thanks for the wonderful 
grace and virtue declared in all Thy saints, who have been 
the choice vessels of Thy favour, and the lights of the 
world in their several generations ; most humbly beseech- 
ing Thee to give us grace so to follow the example of their 
steadfastness in Thy faith, and obedience to Thy holy 
commandments, that at the day of the general resurrection, 
we, with all those who are of the mystical body of Thy 
Son, may be set on His right hand, and hear His most joy- 
ful voice saying : Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit 
the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the 
world. Grant this, O Father, for Jesus Christ's sake, our 
only Mediator and Advocate. Amen. 




THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 69 



IT Or this: 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast knit together Thine elect in 
^ one communion and fellowship, in the mystical body of 
Thy Son Christ our Lord ; Grant us grace so to follow Thy 
blessed saints in all virtuous and godly living, that we may 
come to those unspeakable joys which Thou hast prepared 
for them that unfeignedly love Thee ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

For Grace to Follow Christ. 

f\ LORD Jesus Christ, who by Thy death didst take 
^ away the sting of death ; Grant unto us Thy servants 
so to follow in faith where Thou hast led the way, that we 
may at length fall asleep peacefully in Thee, and awake 
after Thy likeness ; through Thy mercy, who livest with 
the Father and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. 
Amen. 

For Endurance unto the End. 

f\ GOD, Thou King eternal, immortal, and invisible, the 
" blessed and only Potentate ; May we, who cannot see 
Thee with the eye of flesh, behold Thee steadfastly with 
the eye of faith, that we may not faint under the manifold 
trials and temptations of this mortal life, but endure as 
seeing Thee who art invisible ; and grant that having 
fulfilfed Thy will upon earth, we may behold Thy face in 
heaven, and be made partakers of those unspeakable joys 
which Thou hast promised to them who love Thy Son 
Jesus Christ our Lord, and wait His appearing ; for whose 
sake, we beseech Thee to hear us ; and unto whom, with 
Thee the Father and the Holy Ghost, we ascribe all glory 
and praise, for ever and ever. Amen. 

The Benediction. 

OW the God of peace, that brought again from the dead 
our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 
through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you 
perfect in every good work to do His will, working in you 



70 THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



that which is well-pleasing in His sight, through Jesus 
Christ ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

IF Or this: 

rPHE peace of God, which passeth all understating, keep 
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord ; and the bless- 
ing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. 
Amen. 



IT When they are come to the grave, while the Body of the Dead is 
made ready to be la id therein, let the Minister say, 

"TV/TAN that is born of a woman hath but a short time to 
live, and is full of misery. He cometh up, and is cut 
down like a flower ; he fleeth as it were a shadow, and 
never continueth in one stay. 

In the midst of life we are in death: of whom may we 
seek for succour, but of Thee, O Lord, who for our sins art 
justly displeased ? 

Yet, O Lord God most holy, Lord most mighty, O holy 
and most merciful Saviour, deliver us not into the bitter 
pains of eternal death. 

Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts ; shut not 
Thy merciful ears to our prayer ; but spare us, Lord most 
holy, O God most mighty, O holy and merciful Saviour, 
Thou most worthy Judge eternal, suffer us not at our last 
hour, for any pains of death, to fall from Thee. 

IT Or this: 

T AM the Resurrection and the Life, saith the Lord ; He 
that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he 
live : and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me, shall never 
die. 

For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle 
were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not 
made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 



THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 71 



f Then, while earth is cast upon the Body by some standing by, the 
Minister shall say, 

TjX)RASMUCH as it hath pleased Almighty God to take 
out of this world the soul of our broilier departed {or, 
this child), we therefore commit his body to the ground ; 
earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust ; looking for the 
Resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come, 
through our Lord Jesus Christ ; at whose coming in glori- 
ous majesty the earth and the sea shall give up their dead ; 
and the mortal bodies of those who sleep in Him shall be 
changed, and made like unto His own glorious body ; ac- 
cording to the mighty working whereby He is able to sub- 
due all things unto Himself. 

IF Then may be said or sung : 

T HEARD a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, 
Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from hence- 
forth : Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their 
labours ; and their works do follow them. 



IF Then the Minister shall offer one of the following Prayers, or 
some other, and shall follow it with the Benediction. 

(\ MERCIFUL God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
^ who is the Resurrection and the Life ; in whom whoso- 
ever believeth shall live, though he die ; and whosoever 
liveth and believeth in Him shall not die eternally ; We 
humbly beseech Thee, O Father, to raise us from the death 
of sin unto the life of righteousness ; that, when we shall 
depart this life, we may rest in Him ; and that at the Re- 
surrection we may be found acceptable in Thy sight, and 
receive that blessing which Thy well-beloved Son shall then 
pronounce to all that love and serve Thee, saying, Come, ye 
blessed children of My Father, receive the kingdom pre- 
pared for you from the beginning of the world : grant this, 
we beseech Thee, O merciful Father, through Jesus Christ, 
our Mediator and Redeemer. Amen. 



72 THE BURIAL OF THE DEAD. 



A LMIGHTY God, with whom do live the spirits of them 
that depart hence in the Lord, and with whom the 
souls of the faithful, after they are delivered from the 
burden of the flesh, are in joy and felicity ; We give Thee 
hearty thanks for that it hath pleased Thee to deliver them 
out of the miseries of this sinful world ; beseeching Thee, 
that it may please Thee, of Thy gracious goodness, shortly 
to accomplish the number of Thine elect, and to hasten 
Thy kingdom ; that we, with all those that are departed in 
the true faith of Thy holy Name, may have our perfect 
consummation and bliss, both in body and soul, in Thy 
eternal and everlasting glory ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

The Benediction. 

rpHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 
Amen. 



At the Burial of the Dead at Sea. 

H The same Order may be used; but the Words of Committal 
shall be as follows: 

FORASMUCH as it hath pleased Almighty God to take 
out of this world the soul of our brother departed (or, this 
child), we therefore commit his body to the deep ; looking 
for the Resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world 
to come, through our Lord Jesus Christ ; at whose coming 
in glorious majesty the sea shall give up her dead ; and the 
mortal bodies of those who sleep in Him shall be changed, 
and made like unto His own glorious body ; according to 
the mighty working whereby He is able to subdue all things 
unto Himself. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE LICENSING OF CANDIDATES TO 
PREACH THE GOSPEL. 

IF Men who are seeking an entrance to the Christian Ministry ', hav- 
ing been taken tinder the care of Presbytery, and having ful- 
filled the requirements of the Form of Government (Chap, xiv), 
are then to be licensed by Presbytery to preach the Gospel and 
so to make a competent trial of their gifts for the sacred office. 



At the discretion of Presbytery, the Licensing of Candidates may 
follow a specially appointed Service of praise, prayer, and the 
preaching of the Word; or it may be done, after the examina- 
tion of Candidates, at a regular session of Presbytery. The ap- 
pointed hour being come, the Moderator shall call the Presby- 
tery and all present to attend with reverence the Licensure of 
Candidates for the Christian Ministry. 



% Let all stand while the Moderator, or the Minister appointed, 
reads the following Sentences. 

TDRAISE waiteth for Thee, O God, in Zion : and unto 
Thee shall the vow be performed. 
Blessed is the man whom Thou choosest, and causest to 
approach unto Thee, that he may dwell in Thy courts ; we 
shall be satisfied with the goodness of Thy house, even of 
Thy holy temple. 

The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few ; 
Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will 
send forth labourers into His harvest. 



IF Let all bow down while the Moderator, or some other Presbyter 
appointed, leads in Prayer, saying : 

T ET us pray for the increase of the Ministry, the welfare 
^ of the Church, and the conversion of the world to Christ. 



74 LICENSING OF CANDIDATES TO PREACH. 



II Here shall follow the Prayer, which, if so desired, may be in 
form as found in the Treasury of Prayers, pp. 130-133. 

IF Then the Moderator shall say : 

T>RETHREN in Christ: God by His Holy Spirit calls men 
to serve Him according to the gifts bestowed upon 
them: and to chosen servants He grants this grace that 
they should make known the riches of Christ by the preach- 
ing of the Gospel. Unto His Church He has given com- 
mandment not only to pray for the increase of the Ministry, 
but also to prove and try those who seek the sacred office, 
that no man be ordained suddenly, but that men of pure 
heart and good conduct, able to speak to edification, be 
found for the service of the sanctuary. Therefore it is 
proper that those who desire to give themselves to this Min- 
istry should not only prepare themselves by study, prayer, 
and good works, but should also have opportunity to make 
trial of their gifts by the experience of preaching, and to 
approve themselves to the churches as workmen fitted 
rightly to divide the Word of Truth. According to the 
Form of Government of this Church the oversight of these 
matters is committed to the Presbytery, which is to exam- 
ine every Candidate for the sacred office in regard to his re- 
ligious experience, his motives in seeking the Ministry, 
and his proficiency in that knowledge which is necessary 
for a teacher of men. Having made this examination, and 

being satisfied with its result, this Presbytery of is 

ready to license and approve, as Probationers for the Minis- 
try, the following Persons, \liere let the Candidates be named,'] 
who will now present themselves before their brethren. 

If Let the Candidates stand before the Moderator while he asks the 
following Questions; to each of which they shall answer, say- 
ing, I do. 

T\0 you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testa- 
U ments to be the Word of God, the only infallible rule 
of faith and practice ? 

Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Confession of 
Faith of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine 
taught in the Holy Scriptures ? 

Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity of 
the Church ? 



LICENSING OF CANDIDATES TO PREACH. 75 



Do you promise to submit yourself, in the Lord, to the 
government of this Presbytery, or of any other Presbytery 
in the bounds of which you may be called ? 

IT The Candidates shall remain standing, and the Moderator, call- 
ing upon all the Members of the Presbytery to rise, shall say : 

TN the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by that author- 
ity which He hath given to the Church for its edifica- 
tion, we do license you to preach the Gospel, wherever 
God in His providence may call you : and for this purpose, 
[here the Moderator may take each of the Candidates by the 
hand, saying to each,] may the blessing of God rest upon 
you, and the Spirit of Christ fill your heart. Amen. 

IF Then may be sung the following or some other Hymn: 

(\ WORD of God Incarnate, 
^ O Wisdom from on high, 
O Truth unchanged, unchanging, 

O Light of our dark sky ; 
We praise Thee for the radiance 

That from the hallowed page, 
A lantern to our footsteps, 

Shines on from age to age. 

The Church from her dear Master 

Received the gift divine, 
And still that light she lifteth 

O'er all the earth to shine. 
It is the golden casket 

Where gems of truth are stored ; 
It is the heaven-drawn picture 

Of Christ, the living Word. 

It floateth like a banner 

Before God's host unfurled ; 
It shineth like a beacon 

Above the darkling world. 
It is the chart and compass 

That o'er life's surging sea, 
'Mid mists, and rocks, and quicksands, 

Still guides, O Christ, to Thee. 



76 LICENSING OF CANDIDATES TO PREACH. 



O make Thy Church, dear Saviour, 

A lamp of purest gold, 
To bear before the nations 

Thy true light as of old. 
O teach Thy wandering pilgrims 

By this their path to trace, 
Till, clouds and darkness ended, 

They see Thee face to face. Amen. 

IT Then the Moderator, or the Minister appointed, shall say, 
Let us pray. 

H The Prayer may be offered in these or other fitt ing words : 

f\ GOD, the Father eternal, who hast made Thy risen 
^ and ever-glorious Son, Jesus Christ, Head over all 
things to Thy Church: Bestow upon these Thy servants, 
whom we bless in Thy Name, the sevenfold gifts of Thy 
Holy Spirit, that they may be endowed with power to 
preach Thy Gospel, and may prove their fitness to serve 
Thee in the Ministry of the Word. Grant unto them riches 
of heavenly wisdom, and guidance of divine love, that they 
may live near to God and near to man, in fellowship with 
Thy Son. Strengthen their faith, confirm their courage, 
and deepen their joy in work for Thee, renewing in their 
hearts and on their lips the glad tidings of salvation, and 
giving unto them the great reward of those that turn many 
to righteousness. So may the time of their probation bear 
fruit unto everlasting life, and lead them into the full as- 
surance that Thou hast called and blessed them for the 
ministry of the Gospel. 

Lord, hasten the coming of Thy kingdom ; build up Thy 
holy Church throughout the world ; hear the prayers and 
prosper the labours of all Thy good and faithful servants ; 
and Thine shall be the glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

HPHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 
Amen. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 

IT A Candidate for the Holy Ministry, having made proof, as re- 
quired by the Form of Government, of his fitness to preach the 
Gospel, and having received a duly attested call to the Pastor- 
ate of a congregation, and having fully satisfied the Presbytery 
that he is qualified for the sacred office, shall be presented for 
Ordination. 



1T When the Presbytery shall approve a Candidate who has fulfilled 
all the other requirements of the Form of Government, bid has 
not received a call to the Pastorate of a particular congrega- 
tion, he may be ordained to the work of the Ministry as an 
Evangelist, and the necessary changes shall be made in the fol- 
lowing Order. 



*[[ The day appointed for Ordination being come, and the Presby- 
tery convened, a Minister previously designated shall conduct 
Divine Service according to the usual Order, or such special 
Order as the Presbytery may deem proper, and the same, or 
another appointed to preside, shall conduct the Ordination, 
saying as follows : 



rpHE Presbytery of is here assembled to ordain 

to the sacred office of the Ministry, A. B., 
[whom you have called to be your Pastor. 
We have duly considered the call which you 
have presented to him through us.] We have 
diligently inquired into his soundness of doc- 
trine and holiness of life, and are certified of 
Ms meetness in respect to gifts and learning 
for this excellent work, as required in God's 
holy Word. We, therefore, present Mm be- 
fore you to receive ordination with the laying on of the 
hands of the Presbytery. 



The words 
in brackets 
throughout 
this Order 
are to be 
omitted at 
the ordina- 
tion of a n 
Evangelist. 



78 THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 



H Then the Candidate shall stand before the Presiding Minister, 
who shall say: 

T^EARLY beloved in the Lord, you have heard both in 
your examination by the Presb} r tery, and in the words 
already spoken in this place, and in the lessons taken out 
of Holy Scripture, of what dignity and of how great im- 
portance is this Ministry whereunto you are called. And 
now again we exhort you, in the Name of our Lord Jesus 
Christ, that you have in remembrance unto how high and 
weighty an office you are to be ordained ; that is to say, to 
be a messenger, watchman, and steward of the Lord, to 
teach and admonish, to feed and provide for, the Lord's 
family; and to look for the sheep of Christ that are dis- 
persed abroad in the midst of this evil world, that they 
may be saved through Him for ever. 

We have good hope that you have well weighed these 
things before this time, and that you have clearly deter- 
mined by God's grace to give you rself wholly to this office, 
whereunto it hath pleased God to call you ; so that you 
may daily grow stronger in your Ministry, and may be a 
wholesome and godly example and pattern for the people 
to follow. 

And now that this present congregation of Christ may 
also understand your mind and will in these things, and 
that this your promise may the more move you to do your 
duty, you shall answer plainly to all these things which 
we, in the Name of God, and of His Church, demand of 
you. 

Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testa- 
ments to be the Word of God, the only infallible rule of 
faith and practice ? 

Answer : I do so believe. 

Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Confession of 
Faith of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine 
taught in the Holy Scriptures? 

Answer : I do so receive it. 

Do you approve of the government and discipline of the 
Presbyterian Church in these United States? 
Answer : I do. 



THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 79 



Do you promise subjection to your brethren in the Lord ? 
Answer' : I do. 

Have you been induced, as far as you know your own 
heart, to seek the office of the Holy Ministry from love to 
God and a sincere desire to promote His glory in the Gos- 
pel of His Son? 

Answer : I have been thus induced. 

Do you promise to be zealous and faithful in maintaining 
the truths of the Gospel and the purity and peace of the 
Church ; whatever persecution or opposition may arise to 
you on that account ? 

Answer: I do so promise. 

Do you engage to be faithful and diligent in the exercise 
of all private and personal duties, which become you as a 
Christian and a Minister of the Gospel ; as well as in all 
relative duties, and the public duties of your office ; en- 
deavouring to adorn the profession of the Gospel by your 
conversation ; and walking with exemplary piety before 
the flock over which God shall make you overseer ? 

Answer : I do so engage, relying on God's grace. 



At the Ordination of a Pastor: 

A RE you now willing to take the charge of this congre- 
^ gation, agreeably to your declaration at accepting 
their call ? And do you promise to discharge the duties 
of a Pastor to them, as God shall give you strength? 

Answer : I am willing, and I do so promise, the Lord 
being my Helper. 

Or, 

At the Ordination of an Evangelist: 

A RE you now willing to undertake the work of an 
Evangelist; and do you promise to discharge the 
duties which may be incumbent on you in this character 
as God shall give you strength ? 

Answer : I am willing, and I do so promise, the Lord 
being my Helper. 



80 THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 



IT The Candidate, having answered these Questions in the affirma- 
tive : 



The Presiding Minister shall propose to the People the following 
Questions, requesting that they answer them in the affirma- 
tive by holding up their right hands : 

Y\0 you, the People of this congregation, continue to 
^ profess your readiness to receive A. B. y whom you 
have called to be your Minister ? 

Do you promise to receive the Word of Truth from his 
mouth, with meekness and love ; and to submit to him in 
the due exercise of discipline ? 

Do you promise to encourage him in his arduous la- 
bour, and to assist his endeavours for your instruction and 
spiritual edification ? 

Do you engage to continue to him, while he is your 
Pastor, that competent worldly maintenance which you 
have promised ; and whatever else you may see needful 
for the honour of religion and his comfort among you ? 

IF The People having answered these Questions in the affirmative : 



H The Candidate shall then kneel, and the Presiding Minister shall 
by Prayer, and with the Laying on of the Hands of the Presby- 
tery, according to the Apostolic example, solemnly Ordain him 
to the holy office of the Gospel Ministry, using if he will one of 
the folloiving Prayers: 

Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY God and everlasting Father, who dost gov- 
ern all things in heaven and earth by Thy wisdom, 
and hast from the beginning ordained for Thy Church the 
Ministry of Reconciliation, giving some apostles, and some 
prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and 
teachers, for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of 
the Ministry, and for the edifying of the body of Christ ; 
Look in mercy, we beseech Thee, on this Thy servant, upon 
whom we lay our hands in Thy Name [here the Presiding 
Minister and the other Ministers shall lay their hands upon 
the head of the Candidate], and whom we thus ordain and set 
apart to the holy office of the Ministry. Pour down upon 
him the grace of Thy Holy Spirit, confirming in heaven 
what we do in Thy Church on earth, and owning him as a 
true Minister of the Gospel of Thy Son. Vouchsafe to 



THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 81 



him that authority and gentleness, that purity and spiritual 
discernment, that zeal and meekness, which shall make 
him an example and guide to the flock ; that so making full 
proof of his Ministry, and continuing in the same, he ma} r 
both save himself and those that hear him. Grant this, 
O heavenly Father, for the love of Thy dear Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

H Or this : 

f\ LORD, to whom all power is given in heaven and in 
^ earth ; who hast so loved the world, that to redeem and 
purify sinners Thou didst humble Thyself to the death of the 
cross, and there shed Thy most innocent blood ; Look upon 
us mercifully, O Lord, Thou only Prophet, Priest, and King 
to Thine own flock ; and grant unto this Thy servant, upon 
whom we lay our hands in Thy Name [here the Presiding 
Minister and the other Ministers shall lay their hands upon 
the head of the Candidate] , and whom we thus ordain and 
set apart to the work of the Ministry, such endowment of 
Thy Holy Spirit, that he may rightly divide Thy Word, to 
the conversion of sinners, the instruction of Thy flock, and 
the overthrow of error and vice. Give unto him, good 
Lord, Thy grace and wisdom, whereby the enemies of Thy 
truth may be confounded, the ignorant enlightened, and 
Thy sheep fed in the wholesome pastures of Thy holy 
Word. Multiply Thy graces upon him. Comfort and 
strengthen him in all virtue. Govern and guide his Minis- 
try to the praise of Thy holy Name, the promotion of Thy 
kingdom, the comfort of Thy Church, and to the spread 
of Thy blessed Gospel throughout the whole world ; and 
unto Thee, with the Father, and with the Holy Ghost, be 
all honour, praise, and glory, now and ever. Amen. 

H Prayer being ended, the newly ordained Minister shall rise, and 
the Presiding Minister, addressing him, shall say : 

TN the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by that author- 
ity which He has given to His Church, I do hereby de- 
clare you to be ordained to the offlce of the Holy Ministry 
[and duly inducted to the pastoral charge of this congre- 
gation]. 



82 THE ORDINATION OF MINISTERS. 



H Then the Presiding Minister, and afterward all the Members of 
the Presbytery, shall take him by the right hand, saying in 
words to this purpose : 

\VT E give you the right hand of fellowship, to take part of 



' » this Ministry with us. 

1T After which the Minister presiding, or some other appointed for 
the purpose, shall give a solemn Charge to him land to the 



% Then shall the following or some other Prayer be offered by the 
Minister appointed; the People reverently bowing down. 



TjWER living God, our heavenly Father, who didst of old 
time call those whom Thou wouldst for Thy service in 
the Ministry, and who by Thy providence dost continue to 
raise up evangelists, pastors, and teachers for Thy Church ; 
Bless, we entreat Thee, Thy servant here set apart to be a 
Minister [and a Pastor, and the congregation committed to 
his care]. Endue them with spiritual grace; help them to 
perform the vows that they have made ; and continuing faith- 
ful unto death, may they at length receive the crown of life 
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give them in that 
day. Grant this, O Lord, for the sake of Thy dear Son 
Jesus Christ our Lord, who, w ith Thee and the Holy Spirit, 
liveth and reigneth, one God, world without end. Amen. 

U Then the Congregation shall be dismissed with this or some other 
Benediction, the People still bowing down : 

f~PHE peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord ; and the bless- 
ing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. 
Amen. 




People~\. 



H Then a Hymn may be sung. 



Let us pray. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR WHO 
HAS BEEN PREVIOUSLY ORDAINED. 



If When any Minister is to be settled in a congregation, the install- 
ment, which consists in constituting a pastoral relation be- 
tween him and the people of that particular church, may be 
performed either by the Presbytery, or by a Committee ap- 
pointed for that purpose, as may appear most expedient. — Form 
of Government, Chap, xvi, § 4. 

U On the day appointed, the Presbytery or Committee having 
been dxdy constituted, a Minister previously designated shall 
conduct Divine Service according to the usual Order, or such 
special Order as the Presbytery may deem proper ; and a Ser- 
mon shall be delivered by the Minister thereto appointed. 

1 The Sermon being ended, the Presiding Minister shall state to 
the congregation the design of their meeting, and recite the 
proceedings of the Presbytery in relation thereto, in the f ollow- 
ing words, or such other as may be applicable to the circum- 
stances. 

T^EARLY beloved : The call of this congregation to the 
*J Reverend A. B. to become your Pastor, has been duly 

presented to the Presbytery of , and by them carefully 

considered. After inquiring into all the circumstances, it 
has been placed in his hands, and he has signified to the 
Presbytery his willingness to accept thereof. We are here 
at this present time by appointment and order of the said 
Presbytery; and by its authority do now proceed to consti- 
tute and install him, in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, 
as the Pastor of this congregation. 

f Then the Minister to be installed shall stand bef ore the Presiding 
Minister, who shall propose to him the following Questions: 

A RE you now willing to take the charge of this congre- 



^ gation, as their Pastor, agreeably to your declaration 
at accepting their call ? 
Answer, I am now willing. 




84 THE INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 



Do you conscientiously believe and declare, as far as you 
know your own heart, that, in taking upon you this charge, 
you are influenced by a sincere desire to promote the glory 
of God, and the good of His Church ? 

Answer. I so believe and declare. 

Do you solemnly promise, that, by the assistance of the 
grace of God, you will endeavour faithfully to discharge 
all the duties of a Pastor to this congregation ; and will be 
careful to maintain a deportment in all respects becoming 
a Minister of the Gospel of Christ, agreeably to your ordi- 
nation engagements ? 

Ansicer. I do. 

IT Having received satisfactory answers to all these Questions, the 
Presiding Minister shall propose to the People the following 
Questions, requesting that they answer them in the affirmative 
by holding up their right hands : 

~P)0 you, the People of this congregation, continue to pro- 
fess your readiness to receive A. B. t whom you have 
called to be your Minister ? 

Do you promise to receive the Word of Truth from his 
mouth, with meekness and love ; and to submit to him in 
the due exercise of discipline ? 

Do you promise to encourage him in his arduous labour, 
and to assist his endeavours for your instruction and spirit- 
ual edification ? 

Do you engage to continue to him, while he is your 
Pastor, that competent worldly maintenance which you 
have promised ; and whatever else you may see needful 
for the honour of religion and his comfort among you ? 

H The People having answered these Questions in the affirmative, 

the Presiding Minister shall say : 

TN the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the great Head of 
the Church, and by authority of this Presbytery, I do 
pronounce and declare that the Reverend A. i?., is duly 
constituted the Pastor of this congregation. Let us there- 
fore pray, dearly beloved, unto God, the Fountain of all 
grace and glory, that He may be pleased to sanctify with 
His heavenly blessing this relation of Pastor and People 
which has now in His Name been established. 



THE INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 85 



Let us pray. 

A LMIGHTY God and everlasting Father, who dost gov- 
^ ern all things in heaven and earth by Thy wisdom, and 
hast from the beginning ordained for Thy Church the Min- 
istry of Reconciliation ; We thank Thee for Thy goodness 
to us this day in Thy House : and we beseech Thee to con- 
tinue Thy loving-kindness to this congregation, and to Thy 
servant who has now been set over them in holy things. 
Send down upon him the gifts of Thy Holy Spirit : and 
so replenish him from above that he may rightly divide 
the Word of Truth ; so endue him with purity of life that 
he may be an example to this flock : and grant that in all 
things he may faithfully serve before Thee, to the glory of 
Thygreat Name, in the conversion of sinners unto Thee, 
and the upbuilding of Thy people in holiness and in all 
Christian service unto salvation. 

O Lord God, the Sanctifier of the faithful, visit, we pray 
Thee, this congregation with Thy love and favour; pre- 
pare their hearts to receive Thy W ord ; enlighten their 
minds more and more with the light of the everlasting 
Gospel ; increase in them true religion ; nourish them with 
all goodness; and of Thy great mercy keep them in the 
unity of the Spirit and in the bonds of love ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord ;- whom, with Thee and the Holy 
Ghost, we worship and glorify as one God, world without 
end. Amen. 

IT Prayer being ended, the Presiding Minister, or some other ap- 
pointed for the purpose, shall give a solemn Charge to the Pas- 
tor, and to the People. 

H A Hymn appropriate to the occasion may then be sung. 

H Then shall the following or some other Prayer be offered by the 
Minister appointed, the People reverently bowing down. 

Let us pray. 

f \ LORD, our heavenly Father, we beseech Thee not only 
^ for Thy favour upon this Pastor and People, but also 
that Thou wilt bless Thy whole Church in this land, and 
throughout the world. Gather Thy true people into the 



86 THE INSTALLATION OF A PASTOR. 



unity of the faith, and take from them all bitterness and 
unkindness, all needless divisions and misunderstandings. 
May grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied to all who love 
our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Pour out Thy Holy 
Spirit upon all men, and hasten the time when every people 
shall be blessed in the knowledge of Thee, and of Thy Son 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

H Then the congregation shall be dismissed with this or some other 
Benediction, the People still bowing down. 

HPHE peace of God, which passeth all understanding, keep 
-■- your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of 
God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord ; and the bless- 
ing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy 
Ghost, be amongst you, and remain with you always. 
Amen. 

IF It is becoming, that, after the close of the Service, the Members of 
the congregation, especially the Elders and other Officers, should 
come f orward and express to their Pastor their welcome and 
affectionate regard. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE ORDINATION OF RULING ELDERS. 

f Ruling Elders are properly the representatives of the people, 
chosen by them for the purpose of exercising government and 
discipline, in conjunction with pastors or ministers (Form of 
Government, Chap. v). When any person shall have been elected 
to the office of Riding Elder, and shall have declared his will- 
ingness to accept thereof, he shall be set apart to his office in 
the manner prescribed by the Form of Government (Chap. xiii). 

H Divine Service having been celebrated according to the usual 
Order, the Persons to be ordained shall, after the Sermon, pre- 
sent themselves before the pulpit at the call of the Minister, 
who shall thus address the congregation : 

TAEARLY Beloved : As in the Old Testament the Elders 
exercised an honourable office of government among 
the people of God, so also in the New Testament the 
Apostle ordained Elders in every church; commanding 
that they that rule well be counted worthy of double hon- 
our, especially they who labour in the Word and doctrine. 

Therefore, this Church has from the beginning included 
in her government not only Ministers and Pastors, who are 
to preach the Gospel and administer the Sacraments in the 
Name of Christ and as His representatives: but also Ruling 
Elders chosen by the people to represent them, and to be 
joined with Pastors and Ministers in the exercise of gov- 
ernment and discipline in the Church. 

These Ruling Elders in each congregation, together with 
the Pastor, constitute the Session, to whom it is committed 
to admit and exclude members, to regulate the worship, 
guard the doctrine, direct the activity, and conserve the in- 
terests of the congregation. The Elders are also to repre- 
sent their brethren in Presbyteries, Synods, and General 
Assemblies, when commissioned thereto. And it is the 
duty of the Elders severally to set the example of a godly 
walk and conversation, and to assist the Pastor in the vis- 
itation of the people, and in their spiritual guidance and 
comfort. These brethren here present [here the Minister 



88 THE ORDINATION OF RULING ELDERS. 



shall mention the names of the Persons chosen] having been 
chosen, in the mode most approved and in use in this con- 
gregation, to the office of Ruling Elder, and having sig- 
nified their willingness to serve, we do therefore, in the 
Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, now proceed to their ordi- 
nation. 

IF Then the Minister, addressing the Elders-e?ee£, shall say, 

"PORASMUCH as you have declared your willingness to 
*~ take this office upon you, I now require you to answer 
the following Questions, appointed by the Church to be 
put to those who are to be ordained as Elders. 

Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New 
Testaments to be the Word of God, the only infallible rule 
of faith and practice ? 

Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Confession of 
Faith of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine 
taught in the Holy Scriptures ? 

Do you approve of the government and discipline of 
the Presbyterian Church in these United States ? 

Do you accept the office of Ruling Elder in this con- 
gregation, and promise faithfully to perform all the duties 
thereof ? 

Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity of 
the Church ? 

IF The Elders-elect having answered these Questions in the affirma- 
tive, the Minister shall address to the Members of the church 
the following Question : 

~T)0 you, the Members of this church, acknowledge and 
receive these brethren as Billing Elders, and do you 
promise to yield them all that honour, encouragement, and 
obedience in the Lord, to which their office, according to 
the Word of God, and the constitution of this Church, en- 
titles them f 

IF The Members of the church ha ving answered this Question in the 
affirmative, by holding up their right hands, the Minister shall 
proceed to set apart the Candidates to their office, by Prayer, 
(and if desired, the Laying on of Hands,) the El&ers-elecf de- 
voutly kneeling. 

Let us pray. 



THE ORDINATION OF RULING ELDERS. 89 



QET apart, we beseech Thee, O Lord, these Thy servants 
^ to the work whereunto Thou hast called them by the 
voice of this people. Endue them plenteously with hea- 
venly wisdom. Grant them Thy grace, that they may be 
good men, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith, ruling in 
the fear of God. Give them favour and influence with 
the people. Make them faithful unto death, and when the 
Chief Shepherd shall appear, may they receive a crown 
of glory that fadeth not away. Amen. 

IT Then the Minister shall say. 

TN the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the author- 
ity committed to me in His Church, I hereby declare 
vou duly constituted and set apart to the office of Ruling 
Elder. 

I now charge you, in the Name of the Lord Jesus, to be 
faithful in this your office. 

I also charge you, Christian people, to be faithful to 
these Elders whom you have chosen to rule over you in the 
Lord ; and that you render them all due obedience, co-op- 
eration and support, and follow them so far as ye see them 
follow Christ. 

IF Where there is an existing Session, it is proper that the Members 
of that body shoidd here take the newly ordained Elders by the 
hand, saying in words to this purpose : 

\\fE> give you the right hand of fellowship, to take part 
™ of this Office with us. 

IT If Elders who have been already ordained are to be installed 
at the same Service, the Order for their Installation may be 
here introduced. 



U Then the Minister shall say. 

"jl/TAY the great Head of the Church so enrich us with His 
heavenly grace, that at the last we shall hear Him 
saying unto us : Well done, good and faithful servant ; 
enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. 



THE ORDER FOR 



THE INSTALLATION OF RULING ELDERS 
WHO HAVE BEEN PREVIOUSLY 
ORDAINED 

f When an Elder has terminated his connection with his Session 
by removal to another church, or by resignation, or when he 
is re-elected under the rotary system, he is to be reinstalled be- 
fore he can regularly exercise the duties of his office. — Minutes 
of the General Assembly, 1878, 1882. 

% When Elders are to be newly ordained at the same Service with 
the installation of those who have been previously ordained, 
the following Order may be introduced in The Order for the Or- 
dination of Ruling Elders, immediately before the Benediction. 

T3EL0 VED Brethren : Having already been solemnly or- 
dained to the office of Kuling Elder, you do now pre- 
sent yourselves in response to the voice of this congregation, 
to be installed again for the discharge of the active duties 
of your office. 

You will therefore now give answer to the following 
Questions : 

Do you accept the office of Ruling Elder in this congre- 
gation, and promise faithfully to perform all the duties 
thereof ? 

Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity of 
the Church ? 

IT The Elders-elect having answered these Questions in the affirma- 
tive, the Minister shall address to the Members of the church 
the following Question: 

"T)0 you, the Members of this church, acknowledge and 
^ receive these Brethren as Billing Elders, and do you 
promise to yield them all that honour, encouragement, and 
obedience in the Lord, to which their office, according to 
the Word of God, and the constitution of the Church, 
entitles them f 

IT The Members of the church shall answer in the affirmative by 
holding up their right hands. 



THE INSTALLATION OF RULING ELDERS. 91 



^ Then the Minister shall say, 

T HEREBY declare you to be invested with the Office of 
Ruling Elder in this congregation. 

H Then the Minister shall say, 

ly/TAY the great Head of the Church so enrich us with His 
heavenly grace, that at the last we shall hear Him say- 
ing unto us : Well done, good and faithful servant ; enter 
thou into the joy of thy Lord. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 

% Beacons are distinct officers in the Church, whose business it is 
to take care of the poor, and to distribute among them the collec- 
tions raised for their use. To them also may be properly com- 
mitted the management of the temporal affairs of the church 
(Form of Government, Chap. vi). When any person shall have 
been elected to the office of Deacon, and shall have declared his 
willingness to accept thereof, he shall be set apart to his office 
in the manner prescribed by the Form of Government (Chap, 
xiii). 

H Divine Service having been celebrated according to the usual 
Order, the Persons to be ordained shall, after the Sermon, pre- 
sent themselves before the pulpit at the call of the Minister, 
who shall thus address the congregation : 

TT)EAKLY Beloved : Concerning the institution of the 
U office of Deacon we read in the sixth chapter of the 
Book of the Acts, that in the beginning the Apostles them- 
selves ministered to the poor ; but afterwards, being over- 
burdened with these ministrations, they advised that certain 
men be chosen by the Church, to whom the service of the 
poor was committed as their peculiar care ; therefore this 
Church has recognized the work and office of these men, to 
whom in the New Testament is given the title of Deacons, 
as of Apostolic institution, and needful for the welfare of 
the whole Body of Christ, to the end that the Ministers 
might continually give themselves to prayer and to the 
ministry of the Word. 

Of this office St. Paul requires that the Deacons must be 
grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not 
greedy of filthy lucre, holding the mystery of the faith in 
a pure conscience ; ruling their children and their own 
houses well. And of them that have used this office well 
he declares that they purchase to themselves a good degree, 
and great boldness in the faith, which is in Christ Jesus. 

These brethren here present {here the Minister shall men- 
tion the names of the Persons chosen) having been chosen, 



THE ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 93 



in the mode most approved and in use in this congregation, 
to the office of Deacon, and having signified their willing- 
ness to serve, we do therefore, in the Name of the Lord 
Jesus Christ, now proceed to their ordination. 

H Then the Minister addressing the Deacons-elect shall say, 

"PORASMUCH as you have declared your willingness to 
take this office upon you, I now require you to answer 
the following Questions, appointed by the Church to be 
put to those who are to be ordained as Deacons. 

Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New 
Testaments to be the Word of God, the only infallible rule 
of faith and practice ? 

Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Confession of 
Faith of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine 
taught in the Holy Scriptures ? 

Do you approve of the government and discipline of 
the Presbyterian Church in these United States ? 

Do you accept the office of Deacon in this congre- 
gation, and promise faithfully to perform all the duties 
thereof ? 

Do you promise to study the peace, unity, and purity of 
the Church ? 

IT The Deacons-eZec£ having answered these Questions in the affirma- 
tive, the Minister shall address to the Members of the church the 
following Question : 

"P)0 you, the Members of this church, acknowledge and 
receive these brethren as Beacons, and do you promise 
to yield them all that honour, encouragement, and obedi- 
ence in the Lord, to which their office, according to the 
Word of God, and the constitution of this Church, entitles 
them? 

IT The Members of the church having answered this Question in the 
affirmative, by holding up their right hands, the Minister shall 
proceed to set apart the Candidates to their office, by Prayer, 
(and if desired, the Laying on of Hands,) the Deacons-etec£ de- 
voutly kneeling. 

Let us pray. 



94 THE ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 



LORD JESUS, who, being rich, for our sakes became 



^ poor, that we through Thy poverty might be rich ; 
Set apart and consecrate these Thy servants to the office of 
Deacon. Give them Thine own spirit of sympathy with all 
human sorrow and distress, and of holy, self-denying ser- 
vice in behalf of those who are in want and suffering. 
Guide and sustain them in their ministry of love until their 
work on earth is done ; and bestow upon them the great 
rewards of Thy heavenly kingdom. Amen. 



TN the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by the author - 

ity committed to me in His Church, I hereby declare 
you duly set apart and ordained to the office of Deacon. 

I now charge you, in the Name of the Lord Jesus, to be 
faithful in this your office. 

I also charge you, Christian people, to be faithful to 
these Deacons, baptizing their ministry to the poor with 
your daily prayers, supplying it constantly and cheerfully 
with your liberal gifts, and remembering that Christ has 
appointed the poor to represent Himself in our offices of 
sympathy and benevolent service on earth. 

Then shall the King say unto them on the right hand, 
Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom pre- 
pared for you from the foundation of the world ; for I was 
a hungered, and ye gave Me meat ; I was thirsty, and ye 
gave Me drink ; I was a stranger, and ye took Me in ; 
naked, and ye clothed Me; I was sick, and ye visited Me; 
I was in prison, and ye came unto Me. Yerily, I say unto 
you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of 
these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me. 

% Where there is an existing Board of Deacons it is proper that the 
Members of that body take the newly ordained Deacons by the 
hand, saying in words to this purpose : 



T\jTE give you the right hand of fellowship, to take part 
* ' of this Office with us. 




TF Then the Minister shall say, 



THE ORDINATION OF DEACONS. 95 



H Then the Minister shall say, 

^OW unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us; unto Him be glory in the Church by 
Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world without end. 
Amen. 

If Where Deacons who have already been ordained are to be in- 
stalled in any congregation, The Order for their Installation 
may follow The Order for the Installation of Ruling Elders who 
have been previously Ordained. 



THE ORDER FOR 

LAYING THE CORNER-STONE OF A 
CHURCH. 

II The People, being assembled at the place where the church is to 
be built, shall rise, and the Minister shall read the following 
Sentences : 

OUR help is in the Name of the Lord, who made heaven 
" and earth. 

Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain 
that build it. 

H Then let the following Psalm (1 Chronicles xxix. 10-18) be read 
responsively by the Minister and People, all standing, ending 
with the Gloria Patri : 

"QLESSED be thou, Lord God of Israel : our Father, for 
ever and ever. 

Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the 
glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in 
the heaven and in the earth is thine. 

Thine is the kingdom, O Lord : and thou art exalted as 
head over all. 

Both riches and honour come of thee : and thou reignest 
over all. 

And in thine hand is power and might : and in thine 
hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. 

Now therefore, our God, we thank thee : and praise thy 
glorious name. 

But who am I, and what is my people : that we should 
be able to offer so willingly after this sort? 

For all things come of thee : and of thine own have we 
given thee. 

For we are strangers before thee: and sojourners, as were 
all our fathers. 

Our days on the earth are as a shadow : and there is none 
abiding. 



LAYING THE CORNER-STONE OF A CHURCH. 97 



Lord, our God, all this store that we have prepared to 
build thee an house for thy holy name cometh of thine 
hand : and is all thine own. 

1 know also, my God, that thou triest the heart : and 
hast pleasure in uprightness. 

As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have will- 
ingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with 
joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly 
unto thee. 

O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our 
fathers ; keep this for ever in the imagination of the 
thoughts of the heart of thy people, and prepare their 
heart unto thee. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 

U Then shall the Minister say, 
Let us pray. 

T\IRECT us, O Lord, in all our doings, with Thy most 
gracious favour, and further us with Thy continual 
help ; that in all our works begun, continued, and ended 
in Thee, we may glorify Thy holy Name, and finally, by 
Thy mercy, obtain everlasting life ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

% Then shall an appropriate Hymn be sung, all standing : after 
which, all, still standing, shall join with the Minister in their 
Confession of Faith. 

The Creed. 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 
and earth : 

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord; Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary, 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and 
buried ; [He descended into hell ;*] The third day He rose 

* Or, He continued in the state of the dead, and under the power 
of death, until the third day. 



98 LAYING THE CORNER-STONE OF A CHURCH. 



again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty ; From 
thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The Holy Catholic Church ; 
The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The 
Resurrection of the body; and the Life everlasting. Amen. 

H Here shall follow the Laying of the Stone. After such docu- 
ments and other articles as are to be preserved have been de- 
posited in the cavity prepared for them, the Minister, or other 
Person appointed for the purpose, assisted by the builder, shall 
lay the Stone in its place. Then the Minister, placing his hand 
on it, shall say : 

TN the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the 
Holy Ghost, we lay this Corner-Stone of a house to be 

erected here under the name of Church, and devoted 

to the worship of Almighty God. 

Behold, I lay in Zion a chief corner-stone, elect, precious : 
and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. 

Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid : which 
is Jesus Christ. 

1" Then shall he say, 
Let us pray. 

T ORD God, who art the Beginning and the End, by whom 
all things were created ; Grant us the fulness of Thy 
mercy, and establish Thou this Stone which we plant in 
Thy 'Name. 

Accept, we beseech Thee, the humble service of all who 
contribute of their substance unto this building ; let Thy 
blessing rest upon them, and also upon those who labour 
in erecting it, to shield them from all accidents and dan- 
gers ; and grant unto them, and all of us here present, Thy 
heavenly grace, that our gifts and all our service may be 
sanctified, and we may become in soul and body living 
temples of the Holy Ghost. All which we ask through the 
abundant merits of our Lord and Saviour, who liveth and 
reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, 
world without end. Amen. 



LAYING THE CORNER-STONE OF A CHURCH. 99 



f)UR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
" Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. 
Amen. 

IT Here may be given an Address. After which, if so approved, 
an Offering in aid of the building fund may be made. 

1 Then shall be sung a suitable Hymn, and the Minister shall 
pronounce 

The Benediction. 

HPHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 
Amen. 



THE ORDER FOR 

THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 

H The congregation being duly assembled shall rise, and the fol- 
lowing Psalm shall be read responsively by the Minister and 
the People. 

f Or, if so desired, the Ministers taking part in the Service shall 
enter at the door, where they shall be received by the Trustees 
and Elders, and proceed with them up the aisle, reciting re- 
sponsively the following Psalm, the presiding Minister lead- 
ing : 

rpHE earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof: the 
world, and they that dwell therein ; 

For he hath founded it upon the seas : and established it 
upon the floods. 

Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord : or who shall 
stand in his holy place ? 

He that hath clean hands and a pure heart: who hath 
not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully ; 

He shall receive the blessing from the Lord : and right- 
eousness from the God of his salvation ; 

This is the generation of them that seek him : that seek 
thy face, O Jacob : 

Lift up your heads, O ye gates: and be ye lifted up, ye 
everlasting doors : and the King of glory shall come in ; 

Who is this King of glory ? 

The Lord strong and mighty : the Lord mighty in bat- 
tle. 

Lift up yo\\Y heads, O ye gates: even lift them up, ye 
everlasting doors : and the King of glory shall come in ; 
Who is this King of glory? 
The Lord of hosts : he is the King of glory. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 101 



H Then shall be sung the following or some other suitable Hymn : 

A LL people that on earth do dwell, 
^ Sing to the Lord with cheerful voice ; 
Him serve with fear, His praise forth tell ; 
Come ye before Him and rejoice. 

The Lord ye know is God indeed, 
Without our aid He did us make ; 

We are His folk, He doth us feed, 
And for His sheep He doth us take. 

O enter then His gates with praise, 
Approach with joy His courts unto; 

Praise, laud, and bless His Name always, 
For it is seemly so to do. 

For why? The Lord our God is good 

His mercy is for ever sure ; 
His truth at all times firmly stood, 

And shall from age to age endure. Amen. 



H Then shall the Minister and People make their Confession of 
Faith, saying : 

T BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven 
and earth : 

And in Jesus Christ His only Son, our Lord ; Who was 
conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary ; 
Suffered under Pontius Pilate, Was crucified, dead, and 
buried ; [He descended into hell ; *] The third day He rose 
again from the dead ; He ascended into heaven, And sitteth 
on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; From 
thence He shall come to judge the quick and the dead. 

I believe in the Holy Ghost ; The Holy Catholic Church ; 
The Communion of Saints ; The Forgiveness of sins ; The 
Resurrection of the body ; and the Life everlasting. Amen. 

* Or, He continued in the state of the dead, and under the power 
of death, until the third day. 



102 THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 



IT The People being seated, the presiding Minister shall say, 

T^EARLY beloved in the Lord : God our Heavenly Father, 
having in His grace, which is in Jesus Christ our Lord, 
brought to its consummation, our work of preparing for 
the honour of His holy Name, a house within whose walls 
His Gospel is to be truly preached, His Sacraments are to 
be faithfully administered, and prayer and praise are to be 
offered unto Him, we are now gathered in His Presence for 
the purpose of devoting this house, by a solemn act of 
worship, to its proper and sacred use. Let us therefore 
seek His blessing on this Service. 



IT If so desired, the Prayer may be in the form following. 
LORD God, almighty and most merciful, whom the 



^ heaven, even the heaven of heavens cannot contain, 
much less temples built with hands, but who also dwellest 
with men, and delightest Thyself in the assemblage of Thy 
people ; Cleanse our hearts, we beseech Thee, from all evil 
thought and desire, and vouchsafe Thy divine Presence 
and blessing, that both those things may please Thee which 
we do at this present, and also that we may at length ob- 
tain Thy favour with life everlasting in Thy heavenly king- 
dom ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

1i Here let the Minister and the People say together the Lord's 
Prayer: 

i^Vl7R Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 



" Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil: For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. 
Amen. 

IF The Scripture shall then be read. Proper lessons are: from the 
Old Testament, 1 Kings viii. 22-53, and from the New Tes- 
tament, 1 Corinthians iii., Ephesians ii., or Revelation xxi. 



TF Then shall the Minister say, 



Let us pray. 





THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 103 



1f Then shall the Minister speak these Words of Dedication, the 
People standing, and joining in the words printed in Capitals. 

TTOLY, Blessed, and Glorious Trinity : three Persons and 
one God: 

To Thee we dedicate this house. 

Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: Our Father which art 
in heaven : 

To Thee we dedicate this house. 

Son of God, the Only Begotten of the Father, Head of the 
Body, which is the Church : Head over all things to the 
Church ; Prophet, Priest, and King of Thy people : 

To Thee we dedicate this house. 

God the Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and the 
Son : given to be our abiding Teacher, Sanctifier, and Com- 
forter ; Lord and Giver of Life : 

To Thee we dedicate this house. 

U Then shall the Minister say, 

A RISE, O Lord, into Thy rest, Thou and the ark of Thy 
^ strength. Let Thy priests be clothed with righteous- 
ness, and let Thy people shout for joy. Put Thy Name in 
this place. Let Thine eyes be opened toward it ; and 
hearken unto the supplications of Thy people when they 
pray in this place, and hear Thou in heaven Thy dwelling 
place, and when thou hearest, forgive. Amen. 

H Then shall the appointed Minister say, 

Let us pray. 

H And the Congregation, reverently bowing down, shall follow in 
their hearts 

The Prayer of Consecration. 

(\ ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, Thou dwellest not 
^ in temples made with hands, neither art Thou wor- 
shipped with men's hands, as though Thou neededst any- 
thing, seeing that Thou givest to all life and breath and all 
things ; when we bring Thee our best, we serve Thee only 
with what is Thine own ; and when we have done all, we 
are but unprofitable servants. Yet do Thou, O Lord, who 
delightest Thyself in the praises of the Sanctuary, accept 



104 THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 



the offering of this house which Thy people have builded. 
to the glory of Thy holy Name. We consecrate it to Thee, 
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, to be henceforth 
the House of God, and a gate of heaven ; we set it apart 
from all common and worldly uses, for a temple and a sanc- 
tuary, where Thy holy Gospel shall be preached ; where 
the prayers of the Church shall be made unto Thee without 
ceasing ; where Thy high praises shall be devoutly sung ; 
where the ordinances of Thy Word shall be duly adminis- 
tered ; to which Thy people shall throng with cheerful 
steps. How amiable are Thy tabernacles, Lord of Hosts ! 
I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the 
House of the Lord. 

When Thy holy Word is preached in this place may it 
be spoken in the demonstration of the Spirit and with 
power; speak Thou comfortably to Thy people, O Lord, 
through the lips of Thine ambassadors, and let Thy Word 
be as the fire, and as the hammer to hardened hearts. 
When Thy holy Sacraments are here administered, may 
those spiritual graces which the outward signs do repre- 
sent and signify, flow into the hearts of Thy servants; so 
that receiving the seal of Baptism, they shall indeed re- 
ceive the renewing of the Holy Ghost ; and partaking of 
the Lord's Table, they shall indeed feed by faith on the 
Body and Blood of Christ. Here let God be worshipped in 
spirit and in truth, and let not our Father's house be made 
a place of merchandise. Here when Thy people come to 
offer their gifts upon Thine altar, let them consider Him, 
who though He was rich for our sakes became poor, that 
we through His poverty might be made rich. Let the 
glory of the Lord fill this house, and the Spirit of God de- 
scend and dwell in His Church. Amen. 

\ LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hast declared Thy 
love for the world by giving Thine only begotten 
Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish 
but have everlasting life ; Vouchsafe to Thy Church gifts 
of spiritual power, to the hastening in all the world of Thy 
Kingdom which is righteousness and peace and joy in the 
Holy Ghost. 

Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only 
wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 



THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 105 



If // it be the will of the congregation to make an Offering, it ma y 
be received here, and consecrated with Prayer. 

If Then a Hymn shall be sung. 

H Then shall follow 

The Sermon. 

1F A Hymn may be sung after the Sermon. 
IT Then the Minister shall say, 
Let us pray. 

H If so desired, the Prayer may be offered in the form following : 

TV/TOST glorious God; Accept through Thy beloved Son, 
■^■^our thanksgivings for Thine unspeakable love and 
goodness. Thou art the Father of mercies, and God of all 
consolation, full of compassion, forgiving iniquity, trans- 
gression, and sin. We thank Thee that Thou hast founded 
Thy Church upon the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ 
Himself being the chief Corner Stone. We thank Thee that 
Thou hast committed to Thy ministers the Word of recon- 
ciliation. Continue Thy loving-kindness unto us, that we 
may rejoice and be glad in Thee all our days. Guide us by 
Thy counsel, and afterward receive us to Thy glory ; where, 
with all the blessed host of heaven, we may behold, adore, 
and perfectly and joyfully praise Thee, our most glorious 
Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, for ever and ever. Amen. 

IT Or this: 

C\ GOD, whose glory is great in all Thy churches, and 
" the praises of whose Name resound in the assemblies of 
Thy saints ; We, Thy servants, would humble ourselves 
before Thee, and worship Thine infinite Majesty. We 
celebrate Thy wisdom, power, and goodness, that shine 
forth in the works of creation and redemption through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. We bless Thee for all temporal and 
spiritual good that we continually receive at Thy bounti- 
ful hands. But more especially, with all Thy people as- 



106 THE DEDICATION OF A CHURCH. 



sembled this day, we praise Thee that Thou didst send into 
the world Thy Son to save us ; and having delivered Him 
up for our offenses, didst raise Him again for our justifica- 
tion ; and through His glorious resurrection hast given us 
the blessed hope of everlasting life. O Lord, may these 
our thanksgivings come up with acceptance before Thy 
throne. Make us worthy to have part in the resurrection 
of the just, and the glory of Thine eternal kingdom: 
whither Jesus the Forerunner hath for us entered, where 
now He lives and reigns, and is worshipped and glorified; 
with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, blessed for ever- 
more. Amen 

IT The People remaining in the posture of prayer, the Minister shall 

pronounce 

The Benediction. 

HPHE grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, 
and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. 

A men. 



THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 

IT These Prayers may be used, if the Minister so desires, in connec- 
tion with the Morning Service, and the Evening Service. 
They are also commended to Christians, at other times, for 
guidance and help in their devotions ; being gathered and com- 
piled from the Holy Scriptures, from the records of the early 
Church, and from the fathers of the Reformed Faith, with such 
additions as have been made in our own time by those who have 
prayed and laboured in the same Spirit. 

I. General Prayers for Common Worship. 

Adorations 109 

Thanksgivings 110 

Supplications 112 

Intercessions 113 

A General Confession of Sin 117 

II. Prayers for Certain Times and Seasons. 

New Tear's Day 117 

Good Friday 118 

Easter Day 119 

Thanksgiving Day 120 

Advent • 121 

Christmas Day 122 

A Day of Humiliation 123 

A Session of General Assembly 123 

A Meeting of Synod or Presbytery 124 

A Session of Congress 125 

A Session of the Legisla ture 125 

A Prayer for the Army 126 

A Prayer for the Navy 126 

In Time of Dearth and Famine 126 

In Time of Pestilence 127 

After a Great Disaster 127 

In Time of Insurrections and Tumults 127 

In Time of War 128 

In Time of Peace Bestored 128 

III. Intercessions for Special Objects and Persons. 
For Our Country 129 



, 

108 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



For Deliverance from National Bins 130 

For the Church and Missions 130 

For Evangelistic Work 133 

For All Who Do Good 133 

For the Kingdom of God and Universal Peace . . . 133 

For the Young ,.134 

For Sunday -Schools 134 

For Schools and Colleges 135 

For a Service in a School or College 136 

For All Who are in Trouble 136 

For Kindred and Friends 137 

For a Sick Person 138 

For a Sick Child 139 

For One icho is Near to Death 139 

For One Restored from Sickness 140 

For One Going a Journey 140 

For a Person Going to Sea 140 

For Ou r Enemies 140 

For Benefactors 141 

For Distant Friends 141 

Thanksgiving for a Prayer Granted 142 

IV. Brief Petitions. 

For the Spirit of Prayer 142 

For Penitence ... - 143 

For Forgiveness 143 

For Faith 144 

For Hope 144 

For Love 145 

For Humility and Patience 145 

For Perseverance 146 

For Purity .146 

For Temperance 147 

For a Heavenly Mind 148 

For Guidance 148 

For Protection 149 

For Anything According to the Will of God .... 150 

For Grace to Live 150 

For Grace to Die 151 

Y. Ascriptions of Praise . . . 151 



GENERAL PRAYERS. 109 



GENERAL PRAYERS FOR COMMON WORSHIP. 
Adorations. 
L 

INTERNAL and ever-blessed God, we bow down before 
^ Thy divine majesty, adoring Thee, the Lord of heaven 
and earth, of whom and through whom and to whom are 
all things ; unto whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. 

ii. 

T ORD God eternal; sovereign and immutable; holy, just, 
^ and merciful ; Maker of all things by Thy power ; 
Ruler of all things in Thy wisdom ; We adore Thee for 
the wonders of the heavens and the earth; for the goodness 
of Thy dealings and the perfection of Thy secret counsels ; 
for Thy saving love revealed in Jesus Christ, and Thy living 
presence made known by the Holy Spirit. By day and 
night, with voice and heart, praise and adoration shall be 
given unto Thee, O Lord most mighty and most merciful, 
from generation unto generation, for ever and ever. Amen. 

in. 

XTOLY, Holy, Holy!' Lord God almighty; There is none 
like unto Thee, who hast set Thy glory above the 
heavens. Praise waiteth for Thee in Zion, and unto Thee 
shall the vow be performed. Hearken to the adoration of 
Thy people, we beseech Thee, and let the words of our 
mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in 
Thy sight, O Lord our Strength and our Redeemer. Amen. 

IV. 

f\ GOD, whose being and perfections are infinite, eternal, 
^ and unchangeable, the same yesterday, to-day, and for 
ever : Thou art glorious in holiness, full of love and com- 
passion, abundant in grace and truth. All Thy works 
praise Thee in all places of Thy dominion .: and Thy Son 
hath glorified Thee upon earth. Therefore we bow down 
and adore Thee, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, one God, 
blessed for evermore. Amen. 



110 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



Y. 

(\ LORD, Thou art our God : we will exalt Thee, we will 
^ praise Thy Name: for Thou hast done wonderful 
things. By the stars of heaven Thou hast spoken : and in 
the heart of man Thy voice is heard. Through Thy Word 
Thou hast given light ; and in Thy Son the brightness of Thy 
glory is revealed. Lift up our hearts unto Thee, O God, 
and receive our ad6ration ; through Jesus Christ. Amen. 

* 

Thanksgivings, 
i. 

A LMIGHTY God, Father of all mercies, we, Thine un- 
worthy servants, do give Thee most humble and hearty 
thanks for all Thy goodness and loving-kindness to us, and 
to all men. We bless Thee for our creation, preservation, 
and all the blessings of this life ; but above all, for Thine 
inestimable love in the redemption of the world by our 
Lord Jesus Christ ; for the means of grace, and for the hope 
of glory. And, we beseech Thee, give us that due sense 
of all Thy mercies, that our hearts may be unfeignedly 
thankful, and that we show forth Thy praise, not only 
with our lips, but in our lives ; by giving up ourselves to 
Thy service, and by walking before Thee in holiness and 
righteousness all our days ; through Jesus Christ our Lord, 
to whom, with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be all honour 
and glory, world without end. Amen. 

ii. 

f \ GOD, by whose hand all living things were made, and 
^ by whose blessing they are nourished and sustained ; 
We give Thee hearty thanks for all the bounties of Thy 
providence, wherewith Thou hast enriched our life ; and we 
humbly pray that, enjoying Thy gifts in contentment, we 
may be enabled by Thy grace to use them to Thy praise. 
Especially we thank Thee for Thy great love in sending 
Thy Son to be the Saviour of the world, and in calling us 
out of our sins into fellowship with Him : and we beseech 
Thee to grant us always Thy Holy Spirit, through whom 
we may grow continually in thankfulness toward Thee, as 
also into the likeness of Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



GENERAL PRAYERS. 



Ill 



in. 

A LMIGHTY and most merciful Father, from whom com- 
eth every good and perfect gift ; We give Thee praise 
and hearty thanks for all Thy mercies : 

For Thy goodness that hath created us ; Thy bounty 
that hath sustained us ; Thy fatherly discipline that hath 
chastened and corrected us ; Thy patience that hath borne 
with us ; Thy love that hath redeemed us. [Here any 
special mercy may be named. ] 

Grant unto us with Thy gifts a heart to love Thee, and 
enable us to show our thankfulness for all Thy benefits by 
giving up ourselves to Thy service, and cheerfully submit- 
ting in all things to Thy blessed will ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

IV. 

]\/[OST heartily do we thank Thee, O Lord, for all Thy 
mercies of every kind, and for Thy loving care over 
all Thy creatures. We bless Thee for the gift of life, for 
Thy protection round about us, for Thy guiding hand 
upon us, and for the many tokens of Thy love within us ; 
especially for the saving knowledge of Thy dear Son, our 
Redeemer; and for the living presence of Thy Spirit, 
our Comforter. We thank Thee for friendship and duty, 
for good hopes and precious memories, for the joys that 
cheer us and for the trials that teach us to trust in Thee. 
In all these things, our heavenly Father, make us wise 
unto a right use of Thy great benefits ; and so direct us 
that in word and deed we may render an acceptable 
thanksgiving unto Thee, in Jesus Christ our Saviour. 
Amen. 

v. 

IVTOST gracious God, the Fountain of all blessing ; Thou 
hast opened Thy hand to fill us with all good things: 
Thou dost govern us as a King, Thou feedest us like a 
shepherd, Thou keepest us beneath the shadow of Thy 
wings in safety, Thou providest for us as a father, Thou 
lovest us as a friend and thinkest on us perpetually, and 
art exceeding merciful to all that fear Thee; and unto 
Thee, O Lord, we ascribe the praise and honour of our 
redemption : 



112 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



As Thou hast opened Thy hand upon us for a covering, 
so also enlarge our hearts with thankfulness and fill our 
mouths with praise. And grant that what Thou hast sown 
in loving-kindness may spring up in duty, and let Thy 
grace so strengthen our purposes that we may sin no more, 
but walk in the paths of Thy commandments ; that we, 
living here in the light of Thy favour, may at last enter 
into the glory of our Lord, and give eternal praise to Thy 
exalted and ever blessed Name. Amen. 

Supplications, 
i. 

C\ GOD, most holy, wise, and powerful Preserver and 
" Governor of all Thy creatures and all their actions; 
Keep us, we beseech Thee, in health of body and sound- 
ness of mind, in purity of heart and cheerfulness of spirit, 
in contentment with our lot and charity with our neigh- 
bour; and further all our lawful undertakings with Thy 
blessing. In our labour strengthen us: in our pleasure 
purify us: in our difficulties direct us: in our perils de- 
fend us : in our troubles comfort us : and supply all our 
needs according to the riches of Thy grace in Christ Jesus 
our Lord. Amen. 

ii. 

"DROVIDE for us, O most merciful Father, both now and 
in the days to come, those things which are needful for 
our welfare in soul and body, and guide us by Thy Word 
and Spirit, in the way of a willing obedience to Thee. 
Teach us ever to look unto Thee as our Master and Re- 
warder, that all our work may be done in Thy service ; re- 
plenish us with Thy daily gifts, that we may not lack any 
good thing ; and keep us ever in a humble and grateful 
mind, that we may live peaceably with all men, and praise 
Thee by well-doing, according to the commandment of our 
Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 

in. 

C\ LORD, our heavenly Father, who art ever ready to 
^ give good things to them that ask Thee ; Hear the sup- 
plications of Thy children, in our weakness and ignorance, 



GENERAL PRAYERS. 113 



and supply all our needs, in body and in soul, according to 
Thy knowledge of our necessities and the fulness of Thy 
love. Strengthen us to keep Thy commandments : deliver 
us from our infirmities; and uphold us with Thy free 
Spirit. Enable us for those duties which Thou hast laid 
upon us, that our work being w r ell done, we may enjoy the 
fruit of our labour, in a good conscience and a contented 
mind. And so direct us in all our ways, that we may have 
the light of Thy Word upon our path, and the fellowship 
of Thy Spirit in our hearts, and may ever continue among 
the faithful followers of Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 
A men. 

IV. 

f\ THOU most wise and ever-gracious Lord, the Framer 
^ of our bodies and the Father of our spirits, who hast 
kept our souls in life and guided our feet into Thy House 
of Prayer: We pray for each other, all for each, that Thou 
wouldest bless us outwardly in our bodies, and inwardly in 
our souls : grant us good success in all our labours, and 
bring us to Thine everlasting kingdom; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

v. 

(~\ LORD, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting 
^ God, who hast safely brought us to the beginning of 
this day; Defend us in the same with Thy mighty power, 
and grant that this day we fall into no sin, neither run into 
any kind of danger ; but that all our doings, being ordered 
by Thy governance, may be righteous in Thy sight ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Intercessions, 
i. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast taught us to make interces- 
sion for all men ; We pray not only for ourselves here 
present, but w T e beseech Thee also to bring all such as are 
yet ignorant, from the miserable captivity of error to the 
pure understanding of Thy heavenly truth. : that we all, 
with one consent and unity of mind, may worship Thee, 
our only God and Saviour : that all Thy ministers and 
people may both in their life and doctrine be found faith- 



114 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



fill : and that, by them, all poor sheep which wander and 
go astray, may be gathered and brought home to Thy 
fold. 

Moreover, because the reins of government are in Thy 
hands, we beseech Thee to direct and bless all who are in 
lawful authority ; especially Thy servant, the President of 
the United States, and all others to whom the people have 
entrusted power, together with the whole body of the Com- 
monwealth : let Thy fatherly favour so preserve them, and 
Thy Holy Spirit so govern their hearts, that religion may 
be purely maintained, and our land may abide in righteous- 
ness and peace. 

Finally we beseech Thee, for all those who are called to 
bear any cross or tribulation ; that it may please Thee to 
sustain them with the sweet comfort of Thy Holy Spirit, 
until Thou send a full deliverance out of all their troubles ; 
so that through their patience and constancy Thy kingdom 
may increase and shine through all the world. And these, 
with all other mercies, we humbly beg of Thee, in the 
Name of Jesus Chrisc, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen. 

n. 

f \ GOD, the Creator and Preserver of all mankind, we 
" humbly beseech Thee for all sorts and conditions of 
men ; that Thou wouldest be pleased to make Thy ways 
known unto them, Thy saving health unto all nations. 
More especially, we pray for Thy holy Church universal ; 
that it may be so guided and governed by Thy good Spirit, 
that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be 
led into the way of truth, and hold the faith in unity of 
spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life. 
Finally, we commend to Thy fatherly goodness all those 
who are any ways afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or 
estate [and especially those for whom our prayers are 
asked at this time] ; that it may please Thee to comfort 
and relieve them, according to their several necessities ; 
giving them patience under their sufferings, and a happy 
issue out of all their afflictions. And this we beg for Jesus 
Christ's sake. Amen. 



GENERAL PRAYERS. 115 



m. 

f \ GOD, who art the Hope of all the ends of the earth ; Re- 
" member the whole creation, pity our race, and save the 
world from sin. Protect our land from whatever threatens 
her welfare, so that religion and virtue may flourish more 
and more. Give the spirit of wisdom and godly fear to 
Thy servant, the President of the United States, and all 
who are in authority over us. Give humility to the rich 
and grace to use their riches to Thy glory : bless the peo- 
ple in their callings and families, and be Thou a refuge to 
the poor in their distress. Make every home a shelter from 
temptation and a nursery of noble youth; take also the 
homeless beneath Thy protection. Cleanse and sanctify 
the Church which Thou hast loved ; and reveal the Spirit 
of Thy Son through the life and service of Thy people. 
Enlighten all who are perplexed in faith, support those 
who are tempted, awaken those who sleep, comfort the 
afflicted, and encourage such as are ready to faint. En- 
compass with Thy favour all whose lives Thou hast bound 
up with our own, and, if there be any who do us wrong, 
remove all bitterness from our hearts while we pray for 
Thy blessing upon them. Give peace, O Lord, in our 
time, and unite all hearts in the love of Thy dear Son, 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IV. 

f \ GOD, who art mindful of Thy children everywhere; 
" Reveal Thy mercy unto all men, and remember, in Thy 
great good- will, those for whom we now make intercession. 

Remember Thy Church which Thou hast purchased of 
old. Peace be within her walls, and prosperity within her 
palaces. 

Remember Thy mercy and Thy truth toward the house 
of Israel ; and let all the ends of the earth see the salvation 
of our God. 

Remember our Nation which Thou hast established ; give 
wisdom and power from above to Thy servants on whom 
Thou hast laid the burden of authority, especially the 
President of the United States ; and bind together the 
whole body of the Commonwealth in the unity of brother- 
hood. 

Remember all the persecuted and afflicted ; speak peace 



116 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



to troubled hearts ; strengthen the weak, confirm the 
strong ; instruct the ignorant, deliver the oppressed, relieve 
the needy that hath no helper ; and lead us all by the waters 
of comfort, and in the ways of righteousness, to Thine ever- 
lasting rest ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

v. 

A LMIGHTY God, who lovest all that Thou hast made ; 
^ Show Thy mercy unto the whole world, we beseech 
Thee ; and bless all the children of men according to their 
manifold necessities. Enlighten and guide the ignorant ; 
spare the wayward and rebellious, and restrain them from 
their evil ways ; strengthen the sons of labour for their toil, 
and help the sons of consolation in their ministry ; deliver 
the captives and all folk that are brought low ; and make 
the nations of the earth to dwell together in peace and 
brotherhood. 

Endue Thy servant our Chief Magistrate, the Governor 
of this State, and all who bear authority in our land, with 
wisdom and ability, and enrich the whole people with the 
spirit of justice and kindness, that our country may be a 
refuge for the oppressed and a fountain of good for all 
mankind. 

Purify and exalt Thy Church throughout the world, fill- 
ing all who call upon the Lord Jesus Christ with His 
Spirit, and enabling them for mightier works of mercy in 
His Name ; that the power of faith and love may be mani- 
fested in the Christian life, and the hearts of all men every- 
where may be drawn to Thy dear Son, the Light of the 
World. And grant, O most merciful Father, for His sake, 
that in the branch of Thy Church wherein Thou hast joined 
us unto Him, we may evermore know Him truly, love Him 
entirely, and serve Him faithfully. 

Finally we beseech Thee, O God, be very gracious unto 
all who stand in urgent need of Thy mercy, [especially 
unto those for whom our prayers are asked.] Be Thou 
the Strength of the weary, the Comfort of the sorrowful, 
the Friend of the desolate, the Light of the wandering, the 
Hope of the dying, and the Saviour of the lost, for Jesus' 
sake. Amen. 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 117 



A General Confession of Sins. 

A LMIGHTY and most merciful Father ; We have erred, 
and strayed from Thy ways like lost sheep. We have 
followed too much the devices and desires of our own 
hearts. We have offended against Thy holy laws. We 
have left undone those things which we ought to have 
done ; And we have done those things which we ought not 
to have done ; And there is no health in us. But Thou, O 
Lord, have mercy upon us, miserable offenders. Spare 
thou those, O God, who confess their faults. Restore Thou 
those who are penitent; According to Thy promises de- 
clared unto mankind in Christ Jesus our Lord. And grant, 
O most merciful Father, for His sake ; That we may here- 
after live a godly, righteous, and sober life, To the glory 
of Thy holy Name. Amen. 

PRAYERS FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 

New Year's Day. 

A LMIGHTY and most merciful Father, who hast con- 
tinued our life from year to year ; Grant that by longer 
life we may become less desirous of temporal pleasures and 
more careful of eternal happiness. So teach us to number 
our days that our minds may be more withdrawn from 
vanity and folly, more enlightened with the knowledge of 
Thy will, and more invigorated with power to obey it. O 
Lord, calm our thoughts, direct our desires, and fortify our 
purposes, that we may walk with cheerful confidence in 
the path which Thou hast appointed for us, growing wiser 
and stronger in spirit as we advance in years ; and so sup- 
port us by Thy grace that we may live in Thy favour and 
die in Thy peace ; for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

f\ THOU who art from everlasting to everlasting, with- 
^ out beginning or end of days; Replenish us with 
heavenly grace, at the beginning of this year, that we may 
be enabled to accept all its duties, to perform all its labours, 
to welcome all its mercies, to meet all its trials, and to ad- 
vance through all it holds in store for us, with cheerful 



118 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



courage and a constant mind. O Lord, suffer us not to be 
separated from Thee, either by joy or sorrow, or any sin 
or weakness of our own ; but have compassion upon us. 
and forgive us, and keep us in the strong confidence of 
Thine eternal love in Jesus Christ : that as Thou hast called 
us to immortality through Him, so we may pass the residue 
of our years in the power of an endless life ; and to Thy 
Name shall be all the praise. Amen. 

T^YER-LIYING God, by whose mercy we have come to 
^ the gateway of another year ; Grant that we may enter 
it with humble and grateful hearts ; and confirm our reso- 
lution, we beseech Thee, to walk more closely in Thy way, 
and labour more faithfully in Thy service, according to the 
teaching and example of Thy Son our Lord. Let not the 
errors and offenses of the past cling to us, but pardon us 
and set us free, that with a purer purpose and a better 
hope, we may renew our vows in Thy Presence, and set 
forth under the guidance of Thy Spirit, to travel in that 
path which shineth more and more unto the perfect day of 
Thy heavenly kingdom. Amen. 

Good Friday. 

A LMIGHT Y and everlasting God, who of Thy tender love 
toward mankind hast sent Thy Son, our Saviour Jesus 
Christ, to take upon Him our flesh, and that in the form of 
a servant, and to suffer death, even the death of the cross, 
for our redemption ; Mercifully grant that this mind may 
be in us which was also in Christ Jesus, that we may both 
follow the example of His humble obedience and patient 
suffering, and also be made partakers of His glorious resur- 
rection, to live with Thee for ever. Grant this for the sake 
of Thy Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

f \ MOST merciful Father, who of Thy tender compassion 
" toward us guilty sinners didst give Thine only-begot- 
ten Son to be an offering for our sins ; Grant us grace, we 
humbly beseech Thee, that being united unto Him by 
Thy Spirit, and made partakers of His sufferings and His 
death, we may crucify the corrupt inclinations of the flesh, 
die daily unto the world, and lead holy and unblamable 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 119 



lives. Cleaving unto His cross in all the temptations of 
life, may we hold fast the profession of our faith without 
wavering, and finally attain unto the resurrection of the 
just; through the merits of this same once crucified but 
now risen and exalted Saviour. Amen. 

T ORD Jesus Christ, Thou holy and spotless Lamb of God, 
who didst take upon Thyself our sins, and bear them 
in Thy body on the cross ; We bless Thee for all the bur- 
dens Thou hast borne, for all the tears Thou hast wept, 
for all the pains Thou hast suffered, for all the words of 
comfort Thou hast spoken from the cross, for all Thy con- 
flicts with the powers of darkness, and for Thine eternal 
victory over death and hell. With the host of the re- 
deemed, we ascribe unto Thee power and riches and wis- 
dom and strength and honour and glory and blessing, for 
ever and ever. Amen. 

Easter Day. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast brought again from the dead 
^ our Lord Jesus, the glorious Prince of salvation, with 
everlasting victory over hell and the grave ; Grant us power, 
we beseech Thee, to rise with Him to newness of life, that 
we may overcome the world with the victory of faith, and 
have part at last in the resurrection of the just; through 
the merits of the same risen Saviour, who liveth and reign- 
eth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world 
without end. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who through Thine only-begotten Son 
Jesus Christ hast overcome death, and opened unto 
us the gate of everlasting life ; We humbly beseech Thee, 
that, as by Thy special grace preparing us Thou dost put 
into our minds good desires, so by Thy continual help we 
may bring the same to good effect ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy 
Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 

f \ THOLT Son of God and Son of man, who by Thy vic- 
^ tory over death hast brought life and immortality to 
light; Raise us, by faith in Thee, from the grave of sin, 



120 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



and deliver us from the mortal darkness of unbelief : that 
our hearts may be fortified with an eternal hope, and our 
affections set upon the things which are above, and our 
spirits clothed at last with a celestial body : in the likeness 
of that glory wherein Thou art exalted for evermore at the 
right hand of the Father. Amen. 

f \ THOU God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we 
" render Thee most humble and hearty thanks, that when 
He had descended into the grave, Thou didst not suffer 
Thy Holy One to see corruption, but didst show unto Him 
the path of life, and raise Him from the dead, and set Him 
at Thine own right hand in the heavenly places. Grant 
us grace, we beseech Thee, to apprehend with true faith 
the glorious mystery of our Saviour's resurrection, and 
fill our hearts with joy and a lively hope, that amid all the 
sorrows, trials, and temptations of our mortal state, and in 
the hour of death, we may derive strength and comfort 
from this sure pledge of an inheritance incorruptible and 
undefiled, and that fadeth not away. Amen. 



Thanksgiving Day. 

A LMIGHTY God, our heavenly Father, whose mercies 
are without number, and the treasure of whose good- 
ness is infinite ; We render Thee thanks for all the gifts 
Thou hast bestowed upon us; evermore beseeching Thy 
compassion ; that as Thou grantest the petitions of them 
that faithfully ask Thee, Thou wilt never forsake them, 
but prepare them for the rewards to come, in Thy ever- 
lasting kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f \ ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hast blessed 
" the labours of the husbandman, and given unto us the 
fruits of the earth in their season ; Grant us grace to use 
the same to Thy glory, to the relief of those that are needy, 
and to our own comfort ; through Jesus Christ, who is the 
Living Bread which cometh down from heaven and giveth 
life unto the world; to whom, with Thee and the Holy 
Spirit, be all honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 121 



11/1 OST high and mighty Ruler of the universe, by whom 
our Nation hath been established in freedom and pre- 
served in union; We praise Thee for Thy favour shown 
unto our fathers, and Thy faithfulness continued unto 
their children : for the rich land given us for an inheritance, 
and the great power entrusted to the people : for the fidel- 
ity of men set in authority, and the peace maintained by 
righteous laws : for protection against our enemies, and 
deliverance from inward strife: for an honourable place 
among the nations, and the promise of increasing strength. 
Lord, Thou hast not dealt so with any people: Keep Thou 
the Commonwealth beneath Thy care, and guide the State 
according to Thy will : and Thine shall be the glory and 
the praise and the thanksgiving, from generation to gen- 
eration. Amen. 

Advent. 

A LMIGHTY God, give us grace that we may cast away 
the works of darkness, and put upon us the armour of 
light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which Thy 
Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility ; that 
in the last day, when He shall come again in His glorious 
majesty to judge both the quick and dead, we may rise to 
the life immortal ; through Him who liveth and reigneth 
with Thee and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen. 

r\ LORD Jesus Christ, who at Thy first coming didst send 
" Thy messenger to prepare Thy way before Thee ; Grant 
that the ministers and stewards of Thy mysteries may like- 
wise so prepare and make ready Thy way, by turning the 
hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, that at 
Thy second coming to judge the world we may be found 
an acceptable people in Thy sight, who livest and reignest 
with the Father and the Holy Spirit, ever one God, world 
without end. Amsn. 

f\ GOD, who dost gladden us with the continual looking 
" for of our redemption ; Grant that Thy only-begotten 
Son our Lord Jesus Christ, whom we now receive as our 
Redeemer, we may one day in safety behold coming as our 
Judge, who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of 
the Godhead, world without end. Amen. 



122 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



A LMIGHTY God, we beseech Thee, grant unto Thy 
people grace that they may wait with vigilance for the 
advent of Thy Son our Lord, that when He shall arise 
from Thy right hand to visit the earth in righteousness and 
Thy people with salvation, He may not find us sleeping 
in sin, but diligent in Thy service, and rejoicing in Thy 
praises, that so we may enter in with Him unto the mar- 
riage of the Lamb ; through His merits, who liveth and 
reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, 
world without end. Amen. 



Christmas Day. 

"LEATHER in heaven, whose mercy we praise in the 
yearly remembrance of the birth of Thy beloved Son, 
Jesus Christ our Lord ; Grant that as we welcome our Re- 
deemer, His presence may shed abroad, in our hearts and 
in our homes, the light of heavenly peace and joy. Make 
known unto all men, by Thy Word and Spirit, the Gospel 
of His blessed incarnation, whereby Thou hast clearly re- 
vealed Thy love for the world. And help us so to cele- 
brate this day, in humility and gratitude, in unselfish love 
and cheerful service, that our keeping of Christmas may 
be a blessing to our souls, a memorial of Christ, a benefit 
to our fellowmen, and a thanksgiving unto Thee for Thine 
unspeakable gift of the Saviour. Amen. 

f) ALMIGHTY God, who by the birth of Thy Holy One 
^ into the world didst give Thy true light to dawn upon 
our darkness ; Grant that as Thou hast given us to believe 
in the mystery of His incarnation, and hast made us par- 
takers of the divine nature, so in the world to come we may 
ever abide with Him, in the glory of His kingdom ; through 
the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who hast given us Thy only -begot ten 
Son to take our nature upon Him, and as at this time 
to be born of a pure virgin ; Grant that we, being regener- 
ate, and made Thy children by adoption and grace, may 
daily be renewed by Thy Holy Spirit ; through the same 
our Lord Jesus Christ, who liveth and reigneth with Thee 
and the Spirit, ever one God, world without end. Amen. 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 123 



A Day of Humiliation. 

f\ ALMIGHTY God, who desirest not the death but the 
^ life of sinners ; Despise not Thy people returning unto 
Thee in their affliction, but for the glory of Thy Name be 
pleased to hear and succour us ; that the hearts of men may 
know that these scourges proceed from Thy justice and 
cease by Thy mercy ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f\ MOST mighty God, King of kings and Lord of lords, 
^ without whose care the watchman waketh but in vain ; 
We implore, in this our time of need, Thy succour and 
blessing in behalf of our rulers and magistrates, and of all 
the people of this land. Remember not our many and 
great transgressions ; turn from us the judgments which 
we feel, and the yet greater judgments which we fear; and 
give us wisdom to discern, and faithfulness to do, and pa- 
tience to endure, whatsoever shall be well-pleasing in Thy 
sight; that so Thy chastenings may yield the peaceful 
fruits of righteousness, and that at the last, we may rejoice 
in Thy salvation ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who forgivest the iniquities of Thy 
people, and hcalest all their diseases ; who hast pro- 
mised to heal us in Thy Son's Name, and hast sent Him 
to bear our burdens ; Look down upon us, Thine unworthy 
servants, who humble ourselves before Thee and acknow- 
ledge that we have justly provoked Thine anger. We be- 
seech Thee to have mercy upon us, and to forgive us; 
and of Thy loving-kindness to remove this \heve let the 
national affliction be named], the judgment of Thy hand, 
with which Thou hast visited us; and this we ask for the 
honour of Thy great Name ; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 



A Session of the General Assembly. 

A LMIGHTY God, who by Thy Holy Spirit dost inhabit 
^ the whole company of the faithful; Graciously regard, 
we beseech Thee, Thy servants gathered before Thee at 
this time, in the General Assembly and chief council of 
this Church. Shed down upon them heavenly wisdom and 



124 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



grace; enlighten them with true knowledge of Thy Word ; 
inspire them with a pure zeal for Thy glory ; and so order 
all their doings through Thy good Spirit that unity and 
peace may prevail among them ; that truth and righteous- 
ness may flow forth from them ; and that, by their endeav- 
ours, all Thy ministers and congregations may be established 
and comforted, Thy Gospel everywhere purely preached 
and truly followed, Thy kingdom among men extended 
and strengthened, and the whole body of Thine elect people 
grow up into Him who is Head over all things to the 
Church, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who by Thy Holy 
^ Spirit didst enlighten the minds of Thy servants the 
Apostles and Elders, met together at Jerusalem to take 
counsel for the peace and unity of Thy Church, and hast 
promised by Thy Son Jesus Christ to be with Thy faith- 
ful ministers to the end of the world ; Grant us, we beseech 
Thee, the same enlightening and life-giving Spirit, that 
those things which seem good unto the Holy Ghost may 
also seem good unto us. Let brotherly love continue, and 
in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than him- 
self ; save us from all uncharitable judging and rash speak- 
ing. Let the peace of God rule in our hearts, and the law 
of kindness dwell upon our lips; and of Thy great mercy 
vouchsafe, we beseech Thee, so to direct, sanctify, and 
govern us in all our doings, by the indwelling of Thy good 
Spirit, that the Gospel of Christ may be truly preached, 
devoutly received, and heartily obeyed, in all places, to the 
breaking down of the kingdom of sin and Satan ; till at 
length the whole flock of Thy dispersed sheep being 
gathered into Thy fold, under the one Bishop and Shep- 
herd of our souls, shall become partakers of everlasting life, 
through the merits and mediation of Thy dear Son Jesus 
Christ our Lord ; to whom be glory in the Church, world 
without end. Amen. 



A Meeting of Synod or Presbytery. 

A LMIGHTY God, who through the Apostles of Thy Son 
Jesus Christ didst order the governance of Thy flock, 
causing Elders to be ordained in every church, both to 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 125 



teach and to rule, send now Thy blessing upon [the Synod, 

or Presbytery, of ] assembled in Thy Name. Grant 

unto Thy servants the spirit of power, and of love, and of 
a sound mind, that we may be wise in council and diligent 
in service, faithful stewards of the things belonging to Thy 
kingdom, and worthy successors of the Apostles whom our 
Lord sent forth to testify of Him. Direct and govern us 
by Thy Holy Spirit, preserving us from hasty judgment 
and vain dispute, inspiring us with hearty love and true 
devotion, and guiding us both to devise and do those things 
which shall be for the glory of Christ's Name, for the wel- 
fare of His Church, for the peace of all believers, for the 
spread of the Gospel, and for the good of the whole world. 
Amen. 

A Session of Congress. 

11/rOST gracious God, we humbly beseech Thee, as for 
^-' J - the people of this Nation in general, so especially for 
their Senate and Representatives in Congress assembled ; 
That Thou would est be pleased to direct and prosper all 
their consultations, to the advancement of Thy glory, the 
good of Thy Church, the safety, honour, and welfare of 
the people ; that all things may be so ordered and settled 
by their endeavours, upon the best and surest foundations, 
that peace and happiness, truth and justice, virtue and 
piety, may be established among us. These and all other 
necessaries, for them, for us, and Thy whole Church, we 
humbly beg in the Name of Jesus Christ, our most blessed 
Lord and Saviour. Amen. 

A Session of the Legislature. 

C\ THOU who rulest in equity and declarest righteous 
^ judgment ; Send down upon the Legislature of this 
State, [here] lawfully convened, the spirit of concord, pu- 
rity, and justice, that all false counsels and evil influences 
may be absent from the assembly, and that the servants of 
the people may be directed in wisdom and integrity, ac- 
cording to Thy laws. So guide and prosper with Thy 
blessing whatsoever may be devised and enacted, that it 
may redound to the honour and welfare of this Common- 
wealth, to the peace and prosperity of the whole Union, 
and to the glory of Thy Name. Amen. 



126 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 

A Daily Prayer for the Army. 

f \ LORD God, high and mighty, who doest Thy will in 
^ the army of heaven and amongst the inhabitants of the 
earth ; Stretch forth the shield of Thy most merciful pro- 
tection over us Thy servants, and the Army [or Regiment] 
in which we serve. Lead and guide us evermore by the 
counsel of Thy goodness ; strengthen and defend us with 
Thy might ; that we may steadfastly continue an honour 
and bulwark of our land, a terror to evil-doers, and a sure 
defense against every enemy ; and finally, having quitted 
ourselves like men, and as good soldiers of the Lord Jesus, 
may we enter into Thy eternal glory ; through Him w T ho is 
our only Deliverer and the Captain of our salvation, Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



A Daily Prayer for the Navy. 

f~\ ETERNAL Lord God, who alone spreadest out the 
" heavens and rulest the raging of the sea, and hast com 
passed the waters with bounds until day and night come 
to an end ; Be pleased to receive into Thy almighty and 
most gracious protection the persons of us Thy servants, 
and the Fleet \or Ship] in which we serve. Preserve us 
from the dangers of the deep and from the violence of ene- 
mies ; that we may be a safeguard unto our country, and a 
security for such as do business in the mighty waters ; that 
the inhabitants of our land may have peace and freedom to 
serve Thee ; and that in due season we may return to our 
homes, with a thankful remembrance of Thy mercies ; and, 
finally, having passed the sea of this troublous life, may 
enter the haven of eternal rest ; through Him, who is our 
only Refuge and Saviour, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



In Time of Dearth and Famine. 

f\ GOD, heavenly Father, whose gift it is that the rain 
^ doth fall, and the earth bring forth her increase ; Be- 
hold, we beseech Thee, the afflictions of Thy people ; in- 
crease the fruits of the earth by Thy heavenly benediction ; 
and grant that the scarcity and dearth which we now 
suffer, may through Thy goodness be mercifully turned 



FOR CERTAIN TIMES AND SEASONS. 127 



into plenty; that we, receiving Thy bountiful liberality, 
may use the same to Thy glory, the relief of those that are 
needy, and our own comfort ; for the love of Jesus Christ 
our Lord, to whom, with Thee and the Holy Ghost, be all 
honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

In Time of Pestilence. 

TTOLY and mighty Lord, who didst turn back the angel 
of the plague from the dwellings of Thy people ; We 
beseech Thee to hear our cry for those who are suffering 
and dying, [here, if any place be specially afflicted, let it be 
named,'] under the visitation of disease. Mercifully bless 
the means which are used to stay the spread of sickness, 
strengthen those who labour to heal and comfort the af- 
flicted, support those who are in pain and distress, speedily 
restore those who have been brought low, and unto all who 
are beyond healing, grant Thy heavenly consolation and 
Thy saving grace ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

After a Great Disaster. 

A LMIGHTY God, who art a very present help in time of 
trouble ; Let not the heart of Thy people fail when 
fear cometh, but do Thou sustain and comfort them until 
these calamities be overpast : and since Thou knowest the 
cause and reason why this grievous disaster, [of fire, flood, 
earthquake, shipwreck, or other trouble,] hath fallen upon 
men, so do Thou heal the hurt and wounded, console the 
bereaved and afflicted, protect the innocent and helpless, 
and deliver any who are still in peril, for Thy great mer- 
cy's sake. Amen. 

In Time of Insurrections and Tumults. 

f\ ALMIGHTY Lord God, who alone riddest away ty- 
^ rants by Thine everlasting determination, and stillest 
the noise and tumult of the people ; Stir up Thy great 
strength, we beseech Thee, and come and help us ; scatter 
the counsels of them that secretly devise mischief, and 
bring the dealings of the violent to naught ; cast down the 
unjust from high places, and cause the unruly to cease 



128 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



from troubling; allay all envious and malicious passions, 
and subdue the haters and the evil-doers ; that our land 
may have rest before Thee, and that all the people may 
praise Thee, our Help and our Shield, both now and ever- 
more. Amen. 

In Time of War. 

f \ ALMIGHTY God, supreme Ruler and Governor of all 
" things, who art a strong tower of defense to them that 
fear Thee, and whose power no creature is able to resist ; 
Unto Thee do we cry in the hour of our country's need. 
To Thee it belongeth justly to punish sinners and to be 
merciful to those who repent. Save and deliver us, we 
humbly beseech Thee, from the hands of our enemies ; 
abate their pride, assuage their malice, and confound their 
devices ; that we, being armed with Thy defense, may be 
preserved evermore from all perils, to glorify Thee, who 
art the only Giver of all victory; through the merits of 
Thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f \ LORD God of infinite mercy, we humbly beseech Thee 
" to look down upon the nations now engaged in war. 
Reckon not against Thy people their many iniquities, for 
from the lusts of our own hearts come wars and fightings 
amongst us. Look in mercy on those immediately exposed 
to peril, conflict, sickness, and death : comfort the pris- 
oners, relieve the sufferings of the wounded, and show 
mercy to the dying. Remove in Thy good providence all 
causes and occasions of war ; dispose the hearts of those 
engaged therein to moderation ; and of Thy great goodness 
restore peace among the nations; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

In Time of Peace Restored. 

ETERNAL God, our heavenly Father, who alone 
makest men to be of one mind, and stillest the outrage 
of a violent and unruly people ; We bless Thy holy Name 
that it hath pleased Thee to appease the tumults which 
have been lately raised up among us ; most humbly beseech- 
ing Thee to grant to all of us grace, that we may hence- 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS . 129 



forth obediently walk in Thy holy commandments ; and, 
leading a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and hon- 
esty, may continually offer unto Thee our sacrifice of 
praise and thanksgiving for these Thy mercies toward us ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who makest wars to 
^ cease unto the ends of the earth ; We praise and mag 
nify that great mercy, whereby Thou hast not only freed 
our borders from every enemy, and given us rest and 
quietness, but out of Thine abundant goodness art shed- 
ding down the same blessed tranquillity upon the nations 
round about us ; and we humbly beseech Thee, that, being 
subdued by Thy truth, they may evermore dwell together 
in love as one family of mankind ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

INTERCESSIONS FOR SPECIAL OBJECTS AND 
PERSONS. 

For Our Country. 

A LMIGHTY God, King of kings, and Lord of lords, 
from whom proceed all power and dominion in heaven 
and earth; Most heartily we beseech Thee to look with 
favour upon Thy servants, the President of the United 
States, the Governor of this State, and all others in author- 
ity. Imbue them with the spirit of wisdom, goodness, and 
truth ; and so rule their hearts, and bless their endeavours, 
that law and order, justice and peace may everywhere pre- 
vail. Preserve us from public calamities ; from pestilence 
and famine ; from war, privy conspiracy, and rebellion ; 
but especially from national sins and corruption. Make 
us strong and great in the fear of God, and in the love of 
righteousness ; so that being blessed of Thee, we may be- 
come a blessing to all nations, to the praise of the glory of 
Thy grace; through Jesus Christ. Amen. 

f \ MOST powerful Lord God, blessed and only Potentate, 
" who hast granted unto our country liberty, and estab- 
lished our Nation in righteousness by the people's will: 
Guide and direct the multitudes whom Thou hast ordained 



130 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



in power, by Thy pure wisdom and Thy just laws ; that 
their counsels may be filled with knowledge and equity, 
and the whole estate of the Commonwealth be preserved 
in peace, unity, strength, and honour : And take under Thy 
governance and protection, Thy servants, the President, 
the Governor of this State, the lawgivers, the j udges, the 
counsellors, the magistrates, and all who are entrusted 
with authority ; so defending them from all evil and en- 
riching them with all needed good, that the people may 
prosper in freedom beneath an equal law, and our Nation 
may magnify Thy Name in all the earth ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Deliverance from National Sins. 

T ORD God Almighty, defend our land, we beseech Thee, 
from the secret power and the open shame of great 
national sins. From all dishonesty and civic corruption ; 
from all vainglory and selfish luxury ; from all cruelty 
and the spirit of violence; from covetousness which is 
idolatry ; from impurity which defiles the temple of the 
Holy Spirit ; and from intemperance which is the mother 
of many crimes and sorrows; good Lord, deliver and save 
us, and our children, and our children's children, in the 
land which Thou hast blessed with the light of pure reli- 
gion; through Jesus Christ, our only Saviour and King. 
Amen. 

For the Church and Missions. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hast revealed 
^ Thy glory, by Christ, among all nations ; Preserve 
the works of Thy mercy ; that Thy Church, which is 
spread throughout the world, may persevere with stead- 
fast faith in the confession of Thy Name ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f \ ALMIGHTY God, who hast built Thy Church upon 
^ the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus 
Christ Himself being the chief Corner Stone : Grant that by 
the operation of the Holy Ghost, all Christians may be so 
joined together in unity of Spirit, and in the bond of peace, 
that they may be an holy temple acceptable unto Thee. 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 131 



And especially to this congregation present give the abun- 
dance of Thy grace, that with one heart they may desire 
the prosperity of Thy holy universal Church, and with one 
mouth may profess the faith once delivered to the saints. 
Defend them from the sins of false doctrine and the spirit 
of strife ; let not the foot of pride come nigh to hurt them, 
nor the hand of the ungodly to cast them down. And 
grant that the course of this world may be so peaceably 
ordered by Thy governance, that Thy Church may joyfully 
serve Thee in all godly quietness : that so they may walk 
in the ways of truth and peace, and at last be numbered 
with Thy saints in glory everlasting ; through Thy merits, 
O blessed Jesus, Thou gracious Bishop and Shepherd of 
our souls, who art, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, 
one God, world without end. Amen. 

r\ THOU who hast founded a Church for Thyself, and 
^ hast promised to dwell in it for ever ; Enlighten and 
sanctify it, we beseech Thee, by Thy Word and Spirit ; 
endue all pastors and ministers with Thy grace, that they 
may with joy and assurance guard and feed Thy sheep, 
looldng to the great Bishop and Shepherd of souls. Bless 
all who serve Thee in the rule of Thy Church ; in the care 
of Thy poor ; in the ministry of Thy praise ; and in the 
teaching of the young. - Strengthen them in their labours ; 
give them courage to witness a good confession ; and cause 
Thy Church to increase more and more, that every knee 
may bow before Thee, and every tongue confess that Jesus 
Christ is Lord. Amen. 

r\ GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only 
" Saviour, the Prince of Peace ; give us grace seriously 
to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy 
divisions. Take away all hatred and prejudice, and what- 
soever else may hinder us from godly union and concord ; 
that, as there is but one body, and one Spirit, and one hope 
of our calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God 
and Father of us all, so we may be all of one heart and of 
one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of 
faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth 
glorify Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



132 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



r\ LORD, who didst come to seek and to save the lost 
" and to whom all power is given in heaven and in earth ; 
Hear the prayers of Thy Church for those who, at Thy 
command, go forth to preach the Gospel to every creature. 
Preserve them from all dangers ; from perils by land and 
perils by water ; from the deadly pestilence ; from the 
violence of the persecutor ; from doubt and impatience ; 
from discouragement and discord ; and from all the devices 
of the powers of darkness. While they plant and water, O 
Lord, seod Thou the increase ; gather in the multitude of 
the heathen ; and convert in Christian lands such as neglect 
Thy great salvation ; that Thy Name may be glorified, and 
Thy kingdom come, O Saviour of the world ; to whom, with 
the Father and the Holy Ghost, be honour and glory, world 
without end. Amen. 

4~\ GOD, who hast made of one blood all nations of men for 
^ to dwell on the face of the whole earth, and didst send 
Thy blessed Son to preach peace to them that are far off 
and to them that are nigh ; Grant that all men everywhere 
may seek after Thee and find Thee. Bring the nations 
into Thy fold, and add the heathen to Thine inheritance. 
And we pray Thee shortly to accomplish the number of 
Thine elect, and to hasten Thy kingdom ; through the same 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

INTERNAL Father, who art loving unto every man, 
and hast given Thy Son to be the Saviour of the 
world ; Grant that the pure light of His Gospel may over- 
come the darkness of idolatry in every land, and that all 
Thy lost children, dwelling in far countries, may be 
brought home to Thee. Revive the spirit of missions in 
Thy Church, that all Thy people may earnestly desire the 
conversion of mankind ; and so quicken our hearts, that 
there may be a larger outpouring of prayer and gifts and 
personal service, to advance the world-wide triumph of 
Thy kingdom. Protect the messengers of the Gospel amid 
all perils ; guide them through all perplexities; give them 
wisdom, strength, and courage to make known by word 
and life the grace of our Lord Jesus ; prosper all that they 
do, in His blessed Name, to serve the bodies and the souls 
of men ; and hasten, we beseech Thee, the promised day, 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 133 



when at the Name of Jesus every knee shall bow, and 
every tongue confess that He is Lord, to the glory of God 
the Father. Amen. 

For Evangelistic Work. 

TNCREASE, O God, the faith and the zeal of all Thy 
people, that they may more earnestly desire, and more 
diligently seek, the salvation of their fellow-men, through 
the message of Thy love in Jesus Christ our Lord. Send 
forth a mighty call unto Thy servants to preach Thy Word, 
and multiply the number of those who labour in the Gos- 
pel ; granting unto them a heart of love, sincerity of 
speech, and the power of the Holy Ghost, that they may 
be able to persuade men to forsake sin and turn unto Thee. 
And so bless and favour the work of Thine evangelists, 
that multitudes may be brought from the kingdom of evil 
into the kingdom of Thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus 
Christ. Amen. 

For All who do Good to their Fellow-Men. 

l\ GOD, who hast given unto Thy servants diversities of 
" gifts by the same Spirit, and hast taught us by Thy 
holy apostle that all our doings without charity are no- 
thing worth ; Be pleased to bless and prosper all who love 
and serve their fellow-men with a pure heart fervently, 
remembering the poor, healing the sick, comforting the 
sorrowful, teaching the ignorant, and lifting up the af- 
flicted ; let their prayers and alms come up for a memorial 
before Thee; and reward them plentifully with peace; 
through the merits of Jesus Christ our only Saviour. Amen. 

For the Coming of God's Kingdom and Universal 
Peace. 

f\ THOU King eternal, immortal, invisible, Thou only 
" wise God our Saviour ; Hasten, we beseech Thee, the 
coming of Thy kingdom upon earth, and draw the whole 
world of mankind into willing obedience to Thy blessed 
reign. Overcome all the enemies of Christ, and bring 
low every power that is exalted against Him. Cast out 



134 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



all the evil things which cause wars and fightings among 
us, and let Thy Spirit rule the hearts of men in righteous- 
ness and love. Restore the desolations of former days ; re- 
joice the wilderness with beauty; and make glad the city 
with Thy law. Establish every work that is founded on 
truth and equity, and fulfil all the good hopes and desires 
of Thy people. Manifest Thy will, Almighty Father, in 
the brotherhood of man, and bring in universal peace; 
through the victory of Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For the Young. 

"INTERNAL Father, who out of the mouths of babes and 
^ sucklings hast ordained strength ; Reveal Thyself unto 
our children, we beseech Thee, and grant them an entrance 
into Thy heavenly kingdom ; that, being born again of the 
Spirit and taught by the Lord Jesus, they may grow up 
before Thee in purity of heart and innocency of life, until 
they come unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of 
Christ. Amen. 

For Sunday-Schools. 

f \ GOD, our Father, in whose image all the children of 
" men are made ; Most heartily we beseech Thee to bless 
the Sunday-schools of the Church, that the young may be 
instructed in Thy Word, and that Thy likeness may be re- 
newed in their hearts, through the knowledge of Thy dear 
Son, our Lord. Open the Holy Scripture, both to those 
who teach and to those who learn, that the difficulties of 
the letter may not hide the light of the Spirit. Make all 
the scholars ready to be taught and willing to obey, that 
they may find joy and peace in the way of Thy command- 
ments. Enrich the teachers with patient faithfulness and 
loving wisdom, and send out more labourers into this part 
of Thy vineyard, that the young and tender plants may be 
nourished and trained to bring forth fruit unto everlasting 
life. Finally we beseech Thee, O most merciful Father, for 
all Thy little children who dwell in darkness and in the 
shadow of the evil that is in the world ; that it may please 
Thee to have pity on them, and to gather them, by the 
kindly hand of Thy true servants, into the light of the 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 



135 



Christian fold, that they may sit at the feet of Jesus and 
learn of Him. So let Thy truth be manifest from generation 
to generation, and the whole family of mankind rejoice to- 
gether in Thy mercy ; through Jesus Christ the Saviour of 
the world. Amen. 



np.HOU only wise God, our Saviour, with whom are all 
the treasures of heavenly understanding ; Illuminate all 
schools and colleges and universities with the light that 
cometh from above ; that those who teach may be taught 
of Thee, and those who learn may be led by Thy Spirit ; 
and grant that by the increase of knowledge Thy truth 
may be confirmed, and Thy glory manifested ; through 
Jesus Christ, Thy Living Word. Amen. 

f \ FATHER of Lights and Fountain of all knowledge ; 
^ Bless, we beseech Thee, all teachers and institutions of 
learning, and grant that from them the light of truth may 
shine with growing brightness on all men, so that wisdom 
and knowledge may be the stability of our times, in Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, whose Son came into 



the w r orld to destroy the power of darkness, and make 
us the children of light ; Illumine our minds, we beseech 
Thee, with the full and abiding knowledge of Christ and 
His Gospel. Send Thy favour upon all efforts to train the 
young in intelligence, virtue, and piety. Bless all schools 
and colleges of sound learning and Christian education, 
and make them instruments in Thy hand of great good to 
the world. Endue the officers and teachers with a true 
sense of their high stewardship, and enlarge the hearts of 
the people to a loyal support of good institutions of learn- 
ing, where the precepts of the Gospel are honoured as the 
supreme wisdom. 

Enlighten the minds, purify the hearts and lives of the 
students, so that they may go forth a noble host, made 
ready and consecrated for large and fruitful work. Bless 
everywhere those who are striving for a Christian educa- 
tion amid the hindrances of poverty and friendlessness ; and 



Fob Schools and Colleges. 




136 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



raise up friends, and strengthen wise agencies, to prosper 
their endeavours. Pour out Thy Spirit from on high, and 
sanctify all minds and hearts for Thine acceptable service 
here and Thy blessed kingdom hereafter. All which we 
ask in the Name of Him who is the Way, the Truth, and 
the Life, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A Prayer for a Service in a School or College. 

r\ LORD our Heavenly Father, by whose Spirit man is 
" taught knowledge, who givest wisdom to all that ask 
Thee ; Grant Thy blessing, we beseech Thee, to all who 
serve Thee here, whether as teachers or learners, and help 
us in the work which Thou hast given us to do. Enable 
us to labour diligently and faithfully, not with eye-service, 
but in singleness of heart, remembering that without Thee 
we can do nothing, and that in Thy fear is the beginning 
of wisdom. May we set Thy holy will ever before us, and 
do that which is well-pleasing in Thy sight, that so our 
work here may count for good to others, both now and in 
the days to come. Open Thou our eyes to know Thy mar- 
vellous works, to search our own spirits, and to under- 
stand the wondrous things of Thy law. Of Thy great 
goodness pour into our hearts the excellent gift of charity, 
and grant that in meekness and truth and purity we may 
glorify Thee, the Father of lights, in the spirit of Thy 
dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For All who are in Trouble. 

f\ GOD, remember in Thy mercy the poor and needy, the 
" widow and the fatherless, the stranger and the friend- 
less, the sick and the dying [and any such known to our- 
selves, whom we name in our hearts before Thee] : relieve 
their needs, sanctify their sufferings, strengthen their weak- 
ness: and in due time bring them out of bondage into the 
glorious liberty of the sons of God. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, the Comfort of the 
sad, the Strength of sufferers ; Let the prayers of those 
that cry out of any tribulation come unto Thee ; that all 
may rejoice to find Thy mercy present with them in their 
afflictions ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 



SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 137 



OD of all comfort, we commend to Thy mercy all those 
" upon whom any cross or tribulation is laid ; the nations 
who are afflicted with famine, pestilence, or war ; those of 
our brethren who suffer persecution for the sake of the 
Gospel; all such as are in danger by sea or land, and all 
persons oppressed with poverty, sickness, or any infirmity 
of body or sorrow of mind. We pray particularly for the 
sick and afflicted members of this church, and for those 
who desire to be remembered in our prayers [and for any 
such known to ourselves, whom we name in our hearts 
before Thee]. May it please Thee to show them Thy 
fatherly kindness, chastening them for their good: that 
their hearts may turn unto Thee, and receive perfect con- 
solation, and deliverance from all their troubles, for Christ's 
sake. Amen. 

X>E merciful, God, unto all who need Thy mercy, and 
let the Angel of Thy Presence save the afflicted : Be 
Thou the Strength of the weary, the Comfort of the sor- 
rowful, the Friend of the desolate, the Light of the wan- 
dering, the Hope of the dying, the Saviour^of the lost, for 
Jesus' sake. Amen. 

W^E remember before Thee, Lord, our brethren who 
™ are tried with sickness: entreating Thee to increase 
their faith and patience,- to restore them to health, if it be 
Thy will, and to give them a happy issue out of all their 
troubles. Have pity on all widows and orphans ; succour 
all who are in danger by sea and land, all prisoners and 
captives, and all who are oppressed with labour and toil. 
Have mercy on those who are tempted, and on those who 
are in darkness and perplexity, and strengthen them with 
Thy Holy Spirit. Be present with those who are dying, 
and grant that they may depart in peace, fearing no evil, 
and live before Thee in Thy heavenly kingdom; through 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Kindred and Friends. 

f~\ LORD, our heavenly Father, bless and keep, we pray 
^ Thee, our kindred, friends, and benefactors, and gra- 
ciously watch between them and us while we are absent 



138 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



one from another, that in due time we may meet again to 
praise Thee, and hereafter dwell together in heavenly man- 
sions ; through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

(\ THOU who art the God of all the families of the earth ; 
^ We beseech Thee to bless all our friends and kindred, 
and to grant that we may ever be knit together in the 
bonds of mutual love, and," above all, that we may be mem- 
bers together of the mystical body of Christ. Amen. 

C\ GOD. who by the grace of the Holy Ghost hast poured 
" the gifts of love into the hearts of Thy faithful people ; 
Grant unto our friends and kindred, for whom we implore 
Thy mercy, health of body and soul ; that they may love 
Thee with all their strength, and with perfect affection 
fulfil Thy pleasure ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God. we commend to Thee our families and 



" our children. Dwell in our homes, we beseech Thee ; 
protect our dwellings from all evil, both outwardly and 
inwardly, and fill them with peace and holiness. We pray 
for all who are dear to us, that they may be delivered from 
all the dangers of this present life* and'kept by Thy grace 
unto salvation. And O, most loving Father, we remember 
with undying affection those whom death has taken, and 
who sleep in Jesus. I nited in one household of faith and 
love, may we live in the blessed hope, that when the day 
dawns and the shadows flee away, we shall meet with them 
and all Thy redeemed, in Thy presence, where there is ful- 
ness of joy ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



LORD our God. who art the Physician of our souls and 



^ of our bodies : who chastenest and again Thou healest ; 
TTe beseech Thee mercifully to regard Thy servant, [X.,] 
for whom we pray that his life may be spared, and his 
strength restored." O Thou, who didst give Thy Son to 
bear our sicknesses and carry our sorrows; for His sake 
deal compassionately with this Thy servant, and send upon 
him Thy healing power and virtue, both in his body and 
in his soul and Spirit. Into Thy hands we commit him; 




For a Sick Person. 




SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 



139 



unto Thy gracious mercy and protection we commend him. 
as unto a faithful and merciful Saviour. Amen. 

"\TOST wise and loving Father, look down from heaven, 
J ^*~ behold, visit, and relieve this Thy servant. Look 
upon him with the eyes of Thy mercy, give him comfort 
and sure confidence in Thee, defend him from the danger 
of the enemy, and keep him in perpetual peace and safety ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For a Sick Child. 

C\ ALMIGHTY God, our Father in heaven, have pity 
" upon the young child, [N.,] now lying upon the bed 
of sickness. Spare the life which Thou hast given, and 
relieve the pains of the helpless : direct the ministry of 
healing for his recovery, and revive his spirit, that the 
frailty of the body may pass away : renew his strength 
both inwardly and outwardly, and grant unto him many 
years on earth, to serve Thee faithfully by doing good in 
his generation. Nevertheless, O Father, whatsoever Thy 
will may be concerning this child, we know that he is in 
Thy keeping, and we pray that his soul may be Thine, 
for ever and ever, in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Oxe Who is ^ear to Death. 

INTERNAL God, to whom belong the issues of life and 
death ; TTe implore Thy mercy for Thy servant, [N. .] 
whose time of departure seemeth to be near at hand. With 
Thee there is nothing impossible, and Thou canst raise him 
up even yet, and prolong his earthly pilgrimage, if it be 
Thy will : but if not, O God, be gracious unto him, and 
prepare his heart to return to Thee. Give unto him sincere 
repentance, true faith, abundant forgiveness, and a hea- 
venly hope ; suffer him not, in the last hour, for any pain 
or fear of death, to fall away from Thee; but let Thine 
everlasting arms be underneath him, and grant him a peace- 
ful departure, and a happy entrance into eternal rest; 
through the merits and intercession of Jesus Christ our 
Saviour. Amen. 



140 



THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



For One Restored from Sickness. 



f\ GOD, who art the Giver of life, of health, and of 
^ safety; We bless Thy Name, that Thou hast been 
pleased to deliver from his bodily sickness Thy servant, 
who now desireth to return thanks unto Thee, in the pre- 
sence of Thy people. Gracious art Thou, O Lord, and full 
of compassion to the children of men. May his heart be 
duly impressed with a sense of Thy merciful goodness, 
and may he devote the residue of his days to an humble, 
holy, and obedient walking before Thee; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



T ORD God omnipotent, who reignest in the heavens and 
on the earth; We implore Thy guidance and protection 
for Thy servant, [X.,] now setting forth upon his journey. 
Against all perils be Thou his strong defense, and in far 
regions be Thou his faithful friend ; keep him in health and 
heart; prosper the ends of his adventure, and make the 
way of his going and of his returning both safe and happy ; 
and so direct the steps of all Thy pilgrims through this 
world, that we shall finally arrive in the better country, 
even the heavenly, with Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ' 

For a Person, or Persons, Going to Sea. 
f\ ETERXAL Lord God, who alone spreadest out the 



^ heavens, and rnlest the raging of the sea; We com- 
mend to Thy almighty protection Thy servant, for whose 
preservation on the great deep our prayers are desired. 
Guard Mm, we beseech Thee, from the dangers of the sea, 
from sickness, from the violence of enemies, from every 
evil; and conduct him in safety to the haven where he 
would be, with a grateful sense of Thy mercies ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



ORD Jesus Christ, who hast commanded us not to re- 



turn evil for evil, but to pray for those who hate us ; 



For One Going a Journey. 




For Our Enemies. 




SPECIAL INTERCESSIONS. 



141 



Enable us by Thy blessed example and Thy loving Spirit, 
to offer a true prayer for all our enemies, [and especially 
for those persons known to Thee, who have wrought us 
harm.] If in anything we have given just cause of offense, 
teach us to feel, and to confess, and to amend our fault, 
that a way of reconciliation may be found. Let not their 
anger burn against us, but deliver them and us from the 
power of hatred, so that we may be as ready to grant for- 
giveness as they to ask it, and the peace of God may rule 
in all our hearts, both now and evermore. Amen. 

For Benefactors. 

A LMIGHTY God, by whose good Spirit the minds of 
^ men are inclined to deeds of love and kindness ; We 
thank Thee for all the help and comfort which we have 
received from friends and benefactors, [and especially from 
those whose bounty we now remember and record.] As 
they have been mindful of us, so be Thou ever mindful of 
them : as they have freely given, so may they freely re- 
ceive at Thy hands abundant mercies and blessings. Do 
Thou have regard unto all their necessities, and reward all 
their good deeds, that in this life the comfort of grateful 
thoughts may follow them, and in the life to come Thy 
love may welcome them to an everlasting habitation; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Distant Friends. 

/^VUR heavenly Father, who hast bestowed upon us the 
" dear comfort of earthly friends; Look down in mercy 
upon those whom we love, and who love us, while they 
are far away, [and especially upon those for whom we ask 
Thy favour.] Protect and 'keep them from all danger in 
body and in soul : prosper and bless them in all things 
good : suffer them never to be lonely, desolate, or afraid : 
let no shadow come between them and us to divide our 
hearts : but in Thine own good time may we renew sweet 
fellowship together on earth, and at last be united in the 
felicity of heaven ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



142 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



A Thanksgiving for a Prayer Granted. 

/^UR heavenly Father, who hast mercifully inclined 
^ Thine ear unto our supplications, and granted our 
heart's desire in [here let the special mercy be named] ; Let 
this new proof and token of Thy favour, we beseech Thee, 
more closely bind our hearts to Thee in grateful love ; that 
the blessing which Thou hast bestowed may never be 
turned from the good purpose of Thy giving; that the 
lives to which Thou hast been gracious may be consecrated 
to Thy glory ; and that our thankfulness may not be in 
word only, but in deed and in truth; through our Lord 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 



BRIEF PETITIONS. 

For the Spirit of Prayer. 

f \ LORD our God, who alone foreseest and bestowest 
" things needful for our salvation ; Do Thou bestow on 
our souls the hearty desire of imploring Thy mercy, and 
graciously vouchsafe us what will be for our good ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

r\ LORD, grant unto us an unceasing perseverance in 
" praying unto Thee ; that as Thou dost not forsake us 
when we are bowed down in tribulation, so Thou mayest 
cherish us with more abundant grace when we continually 
beseech Thy Majesty; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

T ET the prayers of Thy suppliants, O Lord, come up to 
the ears of Thy mercy ; and that we may obtain what 
we ask, make us ever to ask what pleases Thee ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f \ HOLY Spirit the Comforter, who, with the Father, and 
" the Son, abidest One God in Trinity ; Descend this day 
into our hearts, that while Thou makest intercession for 
us, we may with full confidence call upon our Father. 
Amen. 



BRIEF PETITIONS. 143 



For Penitence. 

r\ LORD God, who despisest not a contrite heart, and for- 
^ gettest the sin and wickedness of a sinner, in whatso- 
ever hour he doth mourn and lament his old manner of 
living ; Grant unto us, we beseech Thee, true contrition 
of heart, that we may vehemently despise our sinful life 
past, and wholly be converted unto Thee, by our Saviour 
and Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. 

f \ GOD, who art rich in forgiveness ; Grant that we may 
^ always hold fast the good things which we receive 
from Thee, and as often as we fall into sins, may be raised 
up by repentance ; through Thy mercy. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY and everlasting God, who hatest nothing 
^ that Thou hast made, and dost forgive the sins of all 
them that are penitent ; Create in us new and contrite 
hearts, that we, duly lamenting our sins, and acknowledg- 
ing our wretchedness, may obtain of Thee perfect remis- 
sion and forgiveness ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 

For Forgiveness. 

XT AVE compassion, God, upon Thy servants; seeing 
that our hearts are grieved for having offended against 
Thee, and our own consciences condemn us, and we have 
no refuge save only in Thy mercy, which Thou hast re- 
vealed through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f) MERCIFUL God, the Fountain of all goodness, who 
^ know est the thoughts of our hearts ; We confess unto 
Thee that we have sinned against Thee, and done evil in 
Thy sight. Wash us, we beseech Thee, from the stains of 
our past sins, and give us grace and power to put away all 
hurtful things; that being delivered from the bondage 
of sin, we may walk in the path of Thy commandments ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T ET Thy mercy come upon us, O God, in great fulness, 
even as our sins against Thee have been many; and 
may Thy forgiving love overflow all our transgressions, 



144 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



that they may be covered and blotted out, and we may be 
purified unto newness of life ; for the sake of Jesus Christ, 
who loved us, and died for us. Amen. 

"PORGIVE, O Lord, we beseech Thee, all that we have 
done amiss, all that we have spoken falsely or in anger, 
and all that we have thought or purposed against Thy will. 
Forgive our ignorant and hasty faults, our wilful and de- 
liberate offenses, and all our sins of slothfulness and neg- 
lect. Forgive us freely; forgive us graciously; forgive 
us entirely ; in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen. 

For Faith. 

f~\ ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, who not only givest 
" every good and perfect gift, but also increase st those 
gifts Thou hast given; We most humbly beseech Thee to 
increase in us the gift of faith, that we may truly believe 
in Thee, and in Thy promises; and that neither by our 
negligence or infirmity of the flesh, nor by grievousness 
of temptation, nor by the subtle crafts and assaults of the 
devil, we be driven from faith in our Saviour and Lord 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

/?1 RANT us, O Lord, we pray Thee, to trust in Thee with 
^ all our heart ; seeing that as Thou dost always resist 
the proud who confide in their own strength, so Thou dost 
not forsake those who make their boast of Thy mercy; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T ORD Jesus Christ, very God and very Man, who changest 
not, but art holy in all Thy works; Turn away from 
us the unbelief of a doubtful mind, and fill our hearts with 
the gifts of Thy grace; that we may believe and know 
Thee to be very God, who by Thy mighty works art proved 
to be the Saviour of all. Amen. 

For Hope. 

TT is good for us to hold fast by Thee, O Lord ; and do 
Thou so increase in us the desire of good, that the hope 
which joins us to Thee may not be shaken by any wavering 
of faith, but may endure in steadfastness of love. Amen. 



BRIEF PETITIONS. 



145 



/~\ GOD, who by Thy Word hast given unto us exceed- 
^ ing great and precious promises ; Encourage us by Thy 
Spirit to a confident expectation of all good things from 
Thee ; that we may abide and labour in the cheerfulness of 
a godly hope. Amen. 

For Love. 

f\ GOD, who hast taught us to keep all Thy heavenly 
^ commandments by loving Thee and our neighbour ; 
Grant us the spirit of peace and grace, that Thy universal 
family may be devoted to Thee with their whole heart, 
and united to each other with a perfect charity ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

GOD the Father almighty, good beyond all that is 
^ good, fair beyond all that is fair, in whom is calmness, 
peace, and concord ; Do Thou remove the dissensions which 
divide us from each other, and bring us back into an unity 
of love, which may bear some likeness to Thy nature. 
And grant that, being made one in Thee, who art above 
all, and through all, and in all, we may be kept in the 
unity of Thy Spirit in the bond of peace ; through that 
peace of Thine which maketh all things peaceful, and 
through the grace, mercy, and tenderness of Thine only- 
begotten Son. Amen. 

f\ GOD of love, Giver of concord, who hast sent us a 
" new commandment, through Thine only-begotten Son, 
that we should love one another, even as Thou didst love 
us, the unworthy and the wandering, and gavest Thy Son 
for our life and salvation ; We pray Thee, Lord, give to us 
Thy servants, in all time of our life on the earth, (but es- 
pecially and pre-eminently now,) a mind forgetful of past 
ill-will, a pure conscience and sincere thoughts, and a 
heart to love our brethren. Amen. 

For Humility and Patience. 

f \ GOD, who resistest the proud, and givest grace to the 
^ humble ; Grant to us that true humility, whereof Thine 
only -begotten Son hath given in Himself an example to 



146 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



the faithful ; that by our foolish pride we may never pro- 
voke Thine indignation, but receive the gifts of Thy grace 
in lowliness ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

/^UR Father in heaven, who chastenest every son whom 
^ Thou receivest ; Grant unto us that with a meek and 
lowly heart we may endure Thy fatherly corrections, and 
submit ourselves quietly to Thy wise discipline: so that 
we may learn obedience by the things which we suffer, 
and have a place among those who through faith and pa- 
tience inherit Thy promises. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who dost suffer Thy children to be 
sorely tried and tempted; Grant that we may bear 
patiently' the troubles of this mortal life, neither rebelling 
against Thee, nor turning away from Thine instruction ; so 
that in the end we may be made wise and humble, and ob- 
tain the blessing of those who, with patience and fortitude, 
wait upon the Lord. Amen. 

For Perseverance. 

f \ GOD, who in Thy loving-kindness dost both begin and 
" finish all good things; Grant that as we glory in the 
beginnings of Thy grace, so we may rejoice in its comple- 
tion ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

C\ GOD, who hast willed that the gate of mercy should 
^ stand open to the faithful ; Look on us, and have mercy 
upon us ; that we, who by Thy grace are following the path 
of Thy will, may never turn aside from the ways of life ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

T OOK upon us and hear us, O Lord our God ; and assist 
those endeavours to please Thee which Thou Thyself 
hast granted to us ; as Thou hast given the first act of will, 
so give the completion of the work ; grant that we may 
be able to finish what Thou hast granted us to wish to be- 
gin. Amen. 

For Purity. 

f\ GOD, whose blessed Son was manifested that He 
" might destroy the works of the devil, and make us the 



BRIEF PETITIONS. 147 



sons of God and heirs of eternal life; Grant us, we beseech 
Thee, that having this hope we may purify ourselves, 
even as He is pure ; that when He shall appear again with 
power and great glory, we may be made like unto Him in 
His eternal and glorious kingdom. Amen. 

TN Thy mercy and majesty, O Lord, behold Thy house- 
hold, that they may be neither stained with vices of their 
own, nor held in bondage by the sins of others; but that 
being ever freed and cleansed from both, they may do ser- 
vice unto Thee ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Temperance. 

A LMIGHTY God, gracious Father of men and angels, who 
^ openest Thine hand and fillest all things with plenty ; 
Teach us to use the gifts of Thy providence soberly and 
temperately, that our temptations may not be too strong 
for us, nor our affections sensual and unholy. Grant, O 
Lord, that the blessings which Thou givest us may neither 
minister to sin nor to sickness, but to health and holiness 
and thanksgiving ; that in the strength of Thy provision 
we may faithfully and diligently serve Thee, may worthily 
feast at Thy Table here, and be accounted worthy to sit 
down at Thy Table hereafter; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

"VTOST merciful Father, who desirest not the death of a 
sinner, but rather that he should turn from his wicked 
ways and live ; Have pity, we beseech Thee, upon all mis- 
erable captives who are in bondage to drunkenness. De- 
liver them from the tyranny of that blind and wicked spirit, 
whereby their lives are confused and defiled, and they are 
driven into all manner of shameful deeds. Strengthen them 
to resist their besetting sin, and lead them into the liberty 
and purity of the sons of God. Direct and bless Thy ser- 
vants who fight against the cruel dominion of strong drink, 
according to the precepts of Thy holy religion; and grant 
that all who minister to intemperance, and all who are en- 
tangled in its net, may be converted to a godly, righteous, 
and sober life * through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 



148 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



For a Heavenly Mind. 

f~\ ALMIGHTY God, who alone canst order the unruly 
^ wills and affections of sinful men ; Grant unto Thy 
people that they may love the thing which Thou cominand- 
est, and desire that which Thou dost promise ; that so, 
among the sundry and manifold changes of the world, our 
hearts may surely there be fixed, where true joys are to be 
found ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

/"1RANT us, O Lord, we beseech Thee, always to seek 
" Thy kingdom and righteousness; and of whatsoever 
Thou seest us to stand in need, mercifully grant us an 
abundant portion ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY and eternal God, who dost bid us walk as 
pilgrims and strangers in this passing world, seeking 
that abiding city which Thou hast prepared for us in 
heaven ; We pray Thee so to govern our hearts by Thy 
Holy Spirit, that we, avoiding all fleshly lusts which war 
against the soul, and quietly obedient to the rule which 
Thou hast set over us, may show forth Thy glory before 
the world by our good works; for Jesus Christ's sake. 
Amen. 

f\ LORD, whose favour is life, and in whose presence 
" there is fulness of peace and joy ; Vouchsafe unto us, 
we beseech Thee, such an abiding sense of the reality and 
glory of those things which Thou hast prepared for them 
that love Thee, as may serve to raise us above the vanity 
of this present world, both in its pleasures and in its neces- 
sary trials and pains; so that under Thy guidance and help 
all things here shall work together for our everlasting sal- 
vation ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

For Guidance. 

C\ THOU great Shepherd of Israel, who, by Thine out- 
" stretched arm, didst bring Thy people of old out of the 
land of Egypt and the house of bondage, guiding them 
safely through the wilderness to the promised land ; We 
pray Thee to deliver us from the bondage and slavery of 



BRIEF PETITIONS. 



149 



our sins, and so to lead us through the wilderness of 
this world, feeding us with bread from heaven, and with 
water out of the smitten rock, and upholding us amid the 
swellings of Jordan, that we may enter at last into that 
rest which remaineth for Thy faithful people. Amen. 

TESUS, our Master, do Thou meet us while we walk in 
^ the way, and long to reach the better country ; so that 
following Thy light, we may keep the path of righteous- 
ness, and never wander into the darkness of this world's 
night, while Thou, who art the Way, the Truth, and the 
Life, art guiding us. Amen. 



LMIGHTY God, who seest that we have no power of 



ourselves to help ourselves ; Keep us both outwardly in 
our bodies and inwardly in our souls, that we may be de- 
fended from all adversities which may happen to the body, 
and from all evil thoughts which may assault and hurt the 
soul ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

f \ God, who knowest us to be set in the midst of so many 
" and great dangers, that by reason of the frailty of our 
nature we cannot always stand upright ; Grant to us such 
strength and protection as may support us in all dangers, 
and carry us through all temptations ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY Lord and everlasting God, vouchsafe, we 
beseech Thee, to direct, sanctify, and govern,both our 
hearts and bodies in the ways of Thy laws, and in the 
works of Thy commandments; that through Thy most 
mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be pre- 
served in body and soul; through our Lord and Saviour 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

TNTO Thy hands we commit ourselves, O God. We say of 
the Lord : Thou art our refuge ; our present help in time 
of trouble ; our hiding-place from the wind and covert 
from the tempest; our God, in Thee will we trust; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



For Protection. 




150 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



A Prayer for 
Anything Desired According to the Will of God. 

T ORD, if it be Thy will, let this come to pass : Lord, if 
it be for Thy glory, so be it in Thy Name. Lord, if 
Thou seest this is well for us and useful, then grant it unto us 
to use for Thine honour : But if Thou knowest it to be harm- 
ful and of no profit, then take from us the longing. Lord, | 
Thou knowest in what way it is better : Let this or that 
be as Thou wilt. Give unto us what Thou wilt, how much 
Thou wilt, and when Thou wilt. Do with us as Thou 
wilt, put us where Thou wilt, deal freely with us every 
day. We are in Thy hand: Behold, we are Thy servants. 
We would not live unto ourselves but unto Thee: that 
we could do so worthily and perfectly; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 



For Grace to Live. 

f\ GOD, who, by the example of Thy dear Son hast 
" warned us that we should work Thy works while it is 
day, before the night cometh, when no man can work ; 
Keep us from sloth and idleness, and from the misuse of 
those talents which Thou hast committed to our trust. 
Enable us to perform the several duties of our state and 
calling with such care and diligence that our work may 
never be reproved in Thy sight ; and forasmuch as the 
needful business of this life is apt to steal away our hearts 
from Thee, give us grace to remember that we have a 
Master in heaven, and to do everything in singleness of 
heart, as unto Thee and not unto men, that of Thee we 
may receive the reward of the inheritance which Thou hast 
promised in Thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

r\ GOD, by whom the meek are guided in judgment, and 
" light riseth up in darkness for the godly ; Grant us, in 
all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what 
Thou wouldest have us to do ; that the Spirit of Wisdom 
may save us from all false choices, and that in Thy light 
we may see light, and in Thy straight path may not 
stumble ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 



ASCRIPTIONS OF PRAISE. 151 



For Grace to Die. 

f\ GOD, who holdest our souls in life, and hast appointed 
^ unto all men once to die ; Grant that when our last 
hour cometh, and the time of our earthly sojourn is ended, 
we may neither be troubled nor dismayed ; but being satis- 
fied with Thy goodness and mercy, we may commend our 
spirits to Thy care; and firmly trusting in the merits of 
Thy Son, our Saviour, we may obtain a peaceful death 
and a happy entrance into glory. And this we beg for the 
sake of Him who died for us that we might live with Thee 
for ever. Amen. 



ASCRIPTIONS OF PRAISE. 



^OW unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly 
above all that we ask or think, according to the power 
that worketh in us ; unto Him be glory in the Church by 
Christ Jesus, throughout all ages, world without end. 
Amen. 

ii. 

~^OW unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and 
to present you faultless before the presence of His glory 
with exceeding joy ; to the only wise God our Saviour, be 
glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and 
ever. Amen. 

hi. 

TTNTO Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in 
^ His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests 
unto God and His Father ; to Him be glory and dominion 
for ever and ever. Amen. 

IV. 

XTOW unto the blessed and only Potentate, the King of 
kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath immortality, 
dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto ; 
whom no man hath seen or can see : to Him be honour and 
power everlasting. Amen. 



152 THE TREASURY OF PRAYERS. 



v. 

OW unto the God of all grace, who hath called us unto 
His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, be glory and domin- 
ion for ever and ever. Amen. 

VI. 

A ND now to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, three Per- 
sons and one God, be ascribed by us, and by the whole 
Church, as is most due, the kingdom, the power, and the 
glory, for ever and ever. Amen. 

VII. 

TTNTO the Father, and unto the Son, and unto the Holy 
^ Ghost, be ascribed in the Church all honour and glory, 
might, majesty, dominion, and blessing, now, henceforth, 
and for ever. Amen. 

VIII. 

T^LESSIISTG, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto 
Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb 
for ever and ever. Amen. 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 



MORNING. 



Sunday. 



pLORY be to Thee, O God; Giver of the morning light, 
" who hast raised our Lord Jesus from the dead, on this 
first day of the week, that we might rejoice in it and keep 
it holy, a Sabbath of the heart. 

Cleanse us now, we implore Thee, from all our sin, and 
bathe us with the dew of Thy divine forgiveness, that we, 
being renewed in spirit, may enter gladly into the pure 
worship of this day, and serve Thee with heavenly medita- 
tion and holy music, with faithful prayer and thankful 
praise, with words of love and works of mercy, with joy in 
Thy creation and perfect peace in Thee, according to the 
teaching and the example of Thy Son, our living Saviour 
Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A S the hart panteth after the water-brooks, O God, our 



souls do thirst after Thee, that we may see Thy power 
and Thy glory, as we have seen them in the sanctuary, and 
be satisfied with the goodness of Thy House. Lead us and 
guide us unto Thy holy hill, and bring us together with 
sweet converse to the place of prayer, to hear Thy Word of 
Truth in the spirit, to offer the sacrifices of joy with Thy 
people, and to make melody in our hearts with the songs 
of Zion. Prepare us, we beseech Thee, for a true entrance 
into the secret of Thy tabernacle ; and bless Thy churches 
everywhere this day with the clear shining of Thy Pre- 
sence ; that the Holy Spirit may descend on many hearts, 
and multitudes may be brought from the kingdom of Satan 
into the kingdom of Thy dear Son Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, we praise Thee for the mercies which 
Thou hast bestowed upon us as a household, and we 
beseech Thee to bless all the families of earth with a Fa- 




154 FAMILY PRAYERS. 



ther's blessing. Look mercifully upon the solitary and the 
lonely, the weary and the heavy-laden, and grant them rest 
unto their souls. Pity and relieve the sorrows of all man- 
kind. Shed abroad the holy influence of the Sabbath 
throughout our land, and keep our whole country, with 
those who are chosen to govern it, in the way of righteous- 
ness and peace. Finally we commend to Thy fatherly 
goodness all who are near and dear to us, wherever they 
may be to-day, praying Thee to watch over them, to pro- 
vide for them, to bless them in body and soul, and at last 
to bring them and us into the perfect and eternal joy of 
heaven ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IT Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added ; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 

The Lord's Prayer. 
Monday. 

f\ GOD, our Father, of whom the whole family in heaven 
^ and on earth is named ; Bestow upon our household, at 
the beginning of this day, that grace which shall keep us 
in the fellowship of the Christian way : and grant unto 
each one of us that heavenly guidance and control, in all 
our labours, pleasures, and trials, which shall maintain our 
hearts in peace with one another and with Thee. Gra- 
ciously help and prosper us in the doing of our various 
duties, with a willing and a cheerful mind ; and defend us 
all, by Thine almighty power, both from inward evil and 
from outward harm ; so that, when the day is ended, it may 
not leave us in sorrow, strife, or shame, but in true unity 
and thankful rest, through Thy merciful favour and Thy 
forgiving love, in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. 

ALMIGHTY God, the Fountain of all wisdom, who 
knowest our necessities before we ask, and our igno- 
rance in asking ; We beseech Thee to have compassion upon 
our infirmities ; and those things which for our unworthi- 
ness we dare not, and for our blindness we cannot, ask, 
vouchsafe to give us in the fulness of Thy love and grace, 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 155 



which Thou hast made known to us ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

T IFT upon us the light of Thy countenance, O God, that 
we may rejoice and be glad in Thee ; and send into our 
souls the purifying gift of Thy pardon, that our sins may 
be utterly removed from us, and we may go forth with a 
clean spirit, a joyful courage, and strength sufficient for 
our needs, to meet whatever thou hast appointed for us 
during this day. And grant, O most merciful Lord, that 
we may neither forget the precepts and the promises of Thy 
holy Word, nor depart in thought, or word, or deed from 
the obedient faith of Thy true children in Jesus Christ. 
Amen. 

IT Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 

The Lord's Prayer 



Tuesday. 

f \ THOU, who art the true Sun of the world, evermore ris- 
^ ing, and never going down ; who, by Thy most whole- 
some appearing and light dost nourish, and make joyful all 
things, as well that are in heaven, as also that are on earth ; 
We beseech Thee mercifully and favourably to shine into 
our hearts, that the night and darkness of sin, and the 
mists of error on every side, being driven away, Thou 
brightly shining within our hearts, we may all our life 
long go without any stumbling or offense, and may walk 
as in the daytime, beiug pure and clean from the works 
of darkness, and abounding in all good works which Thou 
hast prepared for us to walk in. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who alone gavest us the breath of life, 
and alone canst keep alive in us the breathing of holy 
desires; We beseech Thee for Thy compassion's sake to 
sanctify all our thoughts and endeavours, that we may 
neither begin any action without a pure intention, nor con- 
tinue it without Thy blessing ; and grant that, having the 



156 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 



eyes of our understanding purged to behold things invis- 
ible and unseen, we may in heart be inspired with Thy 
wisdom, and in work be upheld by Thy strength, and in 
the end be accepted of Thee, as Thy faithful servants, 
having done all things to Thy glory, and thereby to our 
endless peace. Grant this prayer, O Lord. Amen. 

f\ GOD, most merciful, who healest those that are broken 
" in heart, and turnest the sadness of the sorrowful to 
joy ; Let Thy Fatherly goodness be upon all that Thou hast 
made. Especially we beseech Thee to remember in pity 
such as are this day destitute, homeless, or forgotten of their 
fellow-men. Bless the congregation of the poor. Uplift 
those who are cast down, mightily befriend innocent suf- 
ferers, and sanctify to them the endurance of their wrongs. 
Cheer with hope all discouraged and unhappy people, and 
by Thy heavenly grace preserve from falling those whose 
penury tempteth them to sin. Though they be troubled 
on every side, suffer them not to be distressed ; though 
they be perplexed, save them from despair. Grant this, 
Lord, for the love of Him who for our sakes became 
poor, Thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 

H Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added ; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 



LMIGHTY and most merciful Father, in whom we 



live and move and have our being, to whose tender 
compassion we owe our safety in days past, together with 
all the comforts of this present life, and the hopes of that 
which is to come ; We praise Thee, O God, our exceeding 
Joy, who daily pourest Thy benefits upon us. Grant, we 
beseech Thee, that Jesus our Lord, the Hope of glory, may 
be formed in us, in all humility, meekness, patience, con- 
tentedness, and absolute surrender of our souls and bodies 
to Thy holy will and pleasure. Leave us not, nor forsake 
us, Father, but conduct us safe through all changes of 



The Lord's Prayer. 



Wednesday, 




FAMILY PRAYERS. 157 



our condition here, in an unchangeable love to Thee, and in 
holy tranquillity of mind in Thy love to us, till we come to 
dwell with Thee, and rejoice in Thee for ever. Amen. 

/?j.RANT, Lord, that this day which Thou hast given 
^ unto us in mercy, may be returned unto Thee in ser- 
vice : As Thou hast guarded us during the helpless hours 
of sleep, so do Thou guide us during the appointed hours 
of labour ; that all our tasks may be gladly and faithfully 
performed, as in Thy sight ; that our burdens may not be 
too heavy for us, because Thine aid and comfort are with 
us continually ; and that in nothing may we displease Thee, 
or injure one another. But if in anything we fail or come 
short, through ignorance or weakness, O God, let Thy 
fatherly wisdom correct us, and Thine infinite mercy for- 
give us, and Thy divine love amend our fault ; through 
Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. 

H Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 

The Lord's Prayer. 



Thursday. 

f \ LORD, lift up the light of Thy countenance upon us : 
" let Thy peace rule in our hearts ; and may it be our 
strength, and our song in the house of our pilgrimage. 
We commit ourselves to Thy care and keeping this day; 
let Thy grace be mighty in us, and sufficient for us, and 
let it work in us both to will and to do of Thine own 
good pleasure. Keep us from sin ; give us the rule over 
our own spirits; and keep us from speaking unadvisedly 
with our lips. May we live together in peace and holy love, 
and do Thou command Thy blessing upon us, even life for 
evermore. Prepare us for all the events of the day ; for 
we know not what a day may bring forth. Give us grace 
to deny ourselves, to take up our cross daily, and to follow 
in the steps of our Lord and Master. Amen. 



158 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 



C\ THOU who dwellest in heaven, mercifully regard all 
" Thy sorrowful and afflicted children upon earth, we 
beseech Thee. Draw near to them with the comfort of 
Thy love, and sustain them by the right hand of Thy 
power. Grant us a heart to sympathize with them in 
their distress, and give us both the opportunity and the 
will to help those who are in any trouble, for Jesus Christ's 
sake. Amen. 

OGOD, the Protector of all that trust in Thee, without 
whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy ; Increase and 
multiply upon us Thy mercy, that, Thou being our ruler 
and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that 
we may finally lose not the things eternal. Grant this, 
Lord, most merciful, for the sake of Thy dear Son, our 
Saviour. Amen. 

IT Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added ; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 



E praise Thee, O God, with the morning Hght, and in 



' * the brightness of a new day we bless Thy holy Name. 
For all Thou hast bestowed upon us with the gift of life, 
making us in Thine own image, and granting us to share 
as children in Thy knowledge and Thy love, in Thy work 
and Tny joy; we thank Thee, heavenly Father. For all 
good things in the world, for food and raiment, for home 
and friendship, for useful tasks and pure pleasures; we 
thank Thee, heavenly Father. For all spiritual blessings, 
for Thy holy Word, for the Christian fellowship, for the good 
example and blessed memory of Thy saints, for the secret 
influence of Thy Spirit ; we thank Thee, heavenly Father. 
And above all we praise and bless Thee for the life and 
death of Thy dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. 



The Lord's Prayer. 



Friday. 




FAMILY PRAYERS. 159 



f\ LORD, grant that our hearts may be truly cleansed, 
^ and filled with Thy Holy Spirit, and that we may arise 
to serve Thee, in entire confidence and submission to Thy 
will, ready to do and to endure whatsoever Thou hast ap- 
pointed for us. Let us live for the day, not overcharged 
with worldly cares, but feeling that our treasure is not 
here, and desiring truly to be joined to Thee in Thy hea- 
venly kingdom, and to those who are already gone to Thee. 
O Lord, save us from sin, and guide us with Thy Spirit, 
and keep us in faithful obedience to Thee ; through Jesus 
Christ our Lord. Amen. 

IT Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 

The Lord's Prayer. 



Saturday. 

A LMIGHTY God, our Father and Preserver ; We give 
Thee thanks that of Thy goodness Thou hast watched 
over us the past night, and brought us to a new day : and we 
beseech Thee to strengthen and guard us by Thy Spirit, that 
we may spend it wholly in Thy service and to Thy glory, 
looking for all prosperity to Thy blessing, and seeking 
only those things which are well-pleasing in Thy sight. 
Enable us, O Lord, while we labour for the life that now 
is, ever to have regard unto that heavenly life which Thou 
hast promised Thy children. Defend us in soul and body 
from all harm. And seeing it is a small thing to have be- 
gun well, except we also persevere, take us, O Lord, into 
Thy good keeping this day and all our days: continue and 
increase Thy grace within us, until we shall be perfectly 
united in the glory of Thy Son. Show Thy loving-kindness 
unto all men and women and little children, according to 
the need of every living soul, especially unto those whom 
we love, and those who are in any kind of trouble or dis- 
tress, whom we now remember silently before Thee : [here 
let there be a moment of prayer in silence :] Protect our coun- 
try, and prosper Thy Church : Bless all who do good in the 
world, and restrain and convert all who do evil. And finally, 



160 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 



be pleased to cast out of Thy remembrance all our past 
offenses, forgiving them in Thy boundless mercy and pu- 
rifying our hearts, that we may lead a better life ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

% Here any special prayer or brief petition, suited to the need of the 
household, to any particular occasion, or to the season of the 
year, may be added; and let all present join their voices and 
hearts in 

The Lord's Prayer. 



For the Sick. 

C\ THOU who hearest prayer, we pray Thee to be very 

^ kind and merciful to Thy child , whose body 

surfers in pain and weakness, [and whose life, dear to us, is 
in danger.] Grant unto him patience and tranquillity of 
mind; peace, purity, and courage of soul; the strong will 
to live if it be Thy will; and a heart ready to trust Thee 
waking or sleeping. Bless all the means used for Ms re- 
covery, and all who minister to Mm in Ms suffering [and 
peril.] Make Thou Ms bed in Ms sickness, and comfort 
Mm as a mother comf orteth her child. Restore Mm speed- 
ily to health, if it please Thee, but above all things grant 
Mm that which Thou knowest to be best for Mm, and keep 
Mm Thine for evermore ; through Jesus Christ our Saviour. 
A men. 



For the Absent. 

A LMIGHTY God, who art not far from any one of us ; 

We commend into Thy fatherly care and keeping , 

to whom our hearts go out in absence. Let these our lov- 
ing thoughts come up before Thee as prayers and suppli- 
cations ; defend our beloved from all danger and harm, in 
body and in soul ; enrich Mm with all blessings both for 
this life and for that which is to come ; and grant that we 
may soon meet together, with joy and not with grief, to 
thank Thee for all Thy mercies, in Christ Jesus our Lord. 
Amen. 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 161 



For Departing Friends and Travellers. 

IV/TOST merciful Father, we beseech Thee to protect and 
prosper on his intended journey. May the An- 
gel of Thy Presence be with him wherever he may go, and 
may all his steps be ordered of Thee in wisdom and love ; 
so that he shall travel with Thee as his guardian and his 
guide, and arrive in safety at his desired haven. O Lord, 
bless his going- out and his coming-in, from this time forth 
and even for evermore. Amen. 

For a Family in Time of Distress. 

OGOD, most wise and loving and faithful Redeemer, 
Thou hast permitted us to come into this present trial, 
[here the affliction may be named or silently remembered,] 
in order that we may learn obedience by the things that we 
suffer, and turn to Thee, our Helper in the time of trouble. 
Grant, therefore, that there may be no bitterness in our 
sorrow, no despair in our submission, and no doubt of Thee 
in our perplexity of heart. But do Thou teach us to face 
our trial manfully, and cause even the dark things of life 
to work together for our good, and bring us speedily out 
of our distress, that we may praise Thee with a joyful 
heart, in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. 

Brief Petitions. 

r\ GOD, who hast taught us to keep all Thy heavenly 
" commandments by loving Thee and our neighbour; 
Grant us the spirit of peace and grace, that we may be 
both devoted to Thee with our whole heart, and united to 
each other with a pure will; through Jesus Christ our 
Lord. Amen. 

XTEAR our prayers, O Lord, and consider our desires. 

Give unto us true humility, a meek and quiet spirit, 
a loving and a friendly, a holy and a useful manner of life; 
bearing the burdens of our neighbours, denying ourselves, 
and studying to benefit others, and to please Thee in all 
things. Grant us to be righteous in performing promises, 
loving to our relatives, careful of our charges ; to be gentle 



162 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 



and easy to be entreated, slow to anger, and readily pre- 
pared for every good work. Amen. 

T OOK upon us, O Lord, and let all the darkness of our 
souls vanish before the beams of Thy brightness. Fill 
us with holy love, and open to us the treasures of Thy 
wisdom. All our desire is known unto Thee : therefore 
perfect what Thou hast begun, and what Thy Spirit has 
awakened us to ask in prayer. We seek Thy face : turn 
Thy face unto us, and show us Thy glory. Then shall our 
longing be satisfied, and our peace shall be perfect. Amen. 

GRxlNT, Lord, that we may not, for one moment, admit 
willingly into our souls any thought contrary to Thy 
love. Amen. 

f \ LORD, perfect, we beseech Thee, the faith of us who 
" believe, and sow the good seed of faith in their hearts 
who as yet lack it ; that we all may look steadfastly unto 
Thee, and run with patience the race that is set before us. 
Give us grace to show our faith by our works ; teach us to 
walk by faith, having respect unto the promises: which of 
Thy mercy make good to us in Thine own good time, O 
our most gracious Lord God and Saviour. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who art the Giver of all wisdom; En- 
^ lighten our understandings with knowledge of right, 
and govern our wills by Thy laws, that no deceit may mis- 
lead us, nor temptation corrupt us ; that we may always 
endeavour to do good, and to hinder evil. Amidst all the 
hopes and fears of this world, take not Thy Holy Spirit 
from us ; but grant that our thoughts may be fixed on Thee, 
and that we may finally attain everlasting happiness, for 
Jesus Christ's sake. Amen. 

OGOD, who hast commanded us to be perfect, as Thou 
our Father in heaven art perfect ; Put into our hearts, 
we pray Thee, a continual desire to obey Thy holy will. 
Teach us day by day what Thou wouldest have us do, and 
give us grace and power to fulfil the same. May we never, 
from love of ease, decline the path which Thou pointest 
out, nor, for fear of shame, turn away from it. Amen. 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 163 



ALMIGHTY Lord, and everlasting God, vouchsafe, we 
beseech Thee, to direct, sanctify, and govern,both our 
hearts and bodies in the ways of Thy laws, and in the 
works of Thy commandments ; that through Thy most 
mighty protection, both here and ever, we may be preserved 
in body and soul; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus 
Christ. A men. 

EVENING. 
A General Prayer. 

OGOD most merciful, Light eternal in the darkness shin- 
ing, by whom the night of sin and the blindness of our 
hearts are driven away : Since Thou hast appointed the day 
for labour and the night for rest ; grant unto us, we be- 
seech Thee, that our bodies may repose in peace and quiet- 
ness, that afterward they may be able to endure the toil 
which Thou hast laid upon us in Thy service : Temper our 
sleep that it be not disorderly, and keep us spotless both 
in body and in soul, that our very rest may be to Thy 

flory, renewing the strength of our hearts and our joy in 
'hee: Enlighten the eyes of our understanding that we 
may not sleep in death, but obtain deliverance, through 
faith and hope, from all fear of this misery : Defend us 
against all assaults of our enemies, and take us into Thy 
holy protection. And although we have not passed this 
day without greatly sinning against Thee, we beseech 
Thee to hide our sins with Thy mercy, as Thou coverest 
all things on earth with the darkness of the night, that 
they may be blotted out from Thy remembrance, and we 
may abide in Thy presence and Thy favour, both now and 
for evermore. Relieve and comfort, with Thy fatherly 
goodness, all who are afflicted or distressed in mind, body, 
or estate : Protect and prosper, with Thine almighty power, 
our country and our rulers, the whole Church of Christ on 
earth, our home, and all that we hold dear and sacred : Be 
pleased to guard and help those whom we silently remem- 
ber before Thee: [here let there be a moment of prayer in 
silence :] Bless us and keep us, watch over us and save us, 
O God in whom we trust; through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen. 



164 FAMILY PRAYERS. 



Various Prayers. 

A LMIGHTY God, who seest that we have no power of 
ourselves to help ourselves ; Keep us both outwardly 
in our bodies and inwardly in our souls, that we may be 
defended from all adversities which may happen to. the 
body, and from all evil thoughts which may assault and 
hurt the soul ; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, the Father of our spirits; Meet with us 
^ at close of day, and grant unto us, Thy children, the 
peace which the world cannot give. May no unhallowed 
thoughts or cares disturb the quiet of this evening hour. 
Deliver us from the vain things which have such power 
over us. May we learn wisdom, receive strength, gain 
hope, feel the influence of things unseen, and find rest in 
God. Amen. 

pONFIRM, O Lord, we pray Thee, the hearts of Thy 
^ children, and strengthen them with the power of Thy 
grace ; that they may both be devout in prayer to Thee, 
and sincere in love for each other ; through Jesus Christ 
our Lord. Amen. 

f \ GOD, Father of our spirits and Giver of all good ; Grant 
^ that we may live in such fellowship with Thee that 
we shall grow into Thy likeness, and share Thy life. Free 
us from fretting and pride, and beget within us a meek 
and modest spirit. Deliver us from the bondage and bit- 
terness of a worldly life, and lead us out into the large and 
joyous liberty of Christ. May He so dwell in us that His 
spirit shall become our disposition, and spring up within 
us a well of water unto everlasting life. Lead us in a plain 
path along life's journey, and at last may we enter in 
through the gates into the City. And this we ask in Jesus' 
Name. Amen. 

Tj^ATHER of our spirits, and Father of our Lord and Sav- 
iour Jesus Christ ; Bind us to Thyself with cords of 
faith, and love that can never be broken or strained. May 
we feel the impulse of our divine childhood, and find rest in 
Thee. Feed us out of Thy Word, and may it be sweet to 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 165 



our souls. May prayer daily acquaint us with Thee, and 
make us calm and strong. Cause the light of Thy face to 
shine upon us, so that we shall ever see our path, and find 
the world our Father's home. Give us patience and peace 
under every burden. May we not be anxious and troubled 
over many things, but have the one thing needful and be 
content. O Master, let us walk with Thee 1 Amen. 

TyE beseech Thee, Lord, to behold us with favour, gath- 
' " ered together in the peace of this roof, weak men and 
women subsisting under the covert of Thy patience. Be 
patient still ; suffer us yet a while longer ; — with our broken 
purposes of good, with our idle endeavours against evil, 
suffer us a while longer to endure and (if it may be) help 
us to do better. Bless to us our extraordinary mercies ; if 
the day come when these must be taken, brace us to play 
the man under affliction. Be with our friends, be with 
ourselves. Go with each of us to rest; if any awake, tem- 
per to them the dark hours of watching ; and when the day 
returns, return to us, our Sun and Comforter, and call us 
up with morning faces and with morning hearts — eager 
to labour — eager to be happy, if happiness shall be our 
portion — and if the day be marked for sorrow, strong to 
endure it. Amen. 

f \ LORD, make us to love Thee, and each other in Thee, 
^ and to meet before Thee to dwell in Thine everlasting 
love. Amen. 

f \ LORD, support us all day long of this troublous life, 
" until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes, and 
the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and 
our work is done. Then in Thy mercy grant us a safe 
lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last ; through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

QEND Thy peace into our hearts, O Lord, at the evening 
^ hour, that we may be contented with Thy mercies of 
this day, and confident of Thy protection for this night ; 
and now, having forgiven others, even as Thou dost for- 
give us, may we have a pure comfort and a healthful rest 
within the shelter of this home ; through Jesus Christ our 
Saviour. Amen. 



166 FAMILY PRAYERS. 



T IGHTEN our darkness, we beseech Thee, O Lord; and 
U by Thy great mercy defend us from all perils and dan- 
gers of this night ; for the love of Thy only Son, our Sav- 
iour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, with whom do rest the spirits of just 
men made perfect ; we bless and praise Thy holy Name 
for all Thy servants departed this life in Thy faith and 
fear ; and especially for those most dear to us who have 
fallen asleep in Jesus. And we beseech Thee to give us 
grace so to follow their good example, that we may con- 
tinue united to them in fellowship of spirit, and that finally 
we may be gathered together in Thy heavenly kingdom ; 
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Confession of Sins. 

"jl/TOST holy and merciful Father; We acknowledge and 
confess in Thy Presence : Our sinful nature prone to 
evil and slothful in good ; And all our shortcomings and 
offenses against Thee. Thou alone knowest how often we 
have sinned: In wandering from Thy ways; In wasting 
Thy gifts; In forgetting Thy love. But Thou, O Lord, 
have pity upon us ; Who are ashamed and sorry for all 
wherein we have displeased Thee. Teach us to hate our 
errors ; Cleanse us from our secret faults ; And forgive 
our sins ; For the sake of Thy dear Son our Saviour. And 
O most holy and loving Father ; Send Thy purifying grace 
into our hearts, we beseech Thee ; That we may hence- 
forth live in Thy light and walk in Thy ways ; According 
to the commandments of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

The Lord's Prayer. 

^~\UR Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. 
" Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it 
is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And for- 
give us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And lead 
us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil : For Thine 
is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. 
Amen. 



FAMILY PRAYERS. 167 

Forms of Grace Before Meat. 

rpHE Lord make us grateful for all His mercies, and add 
His blessing, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

A LMIGHTY God, who providest for us, nourish our 
souls with the Bread of Life in Jesus Christ. Amen, 

T3LESS us, O Lord, in blessing Thee, as we receive Thy 
gift of daily bread. Amen. 

T1HE Lord bless this food to our use, and us to His ser- 
vice. Amen. 

T ORD, help us to receive all good things as from Thy 
^ hand, and to use them to Thy praise. Amen. 

TTEAYENLY Father, make us thankful to Thee, and 
mindful of others, as we receive these blessings, in 
Jesus' Name. Amen. 

TjWTHER in heaven, sustain our bodies with this food, 
our hearts with true friendship, and our souls with Thy 
truth, for Christ's sake. Amen. 

T ORD Jesus, be our holy Guest, 

Our morning Joy, our eveniog Rest; 
And with our daily bread impart 
Thy love and peace to every heart. Amen. 



THE PSALTER. 

If The following Selections may be read as appropriate for certain 
days. 



New Year's Bay 8, 13, 37, 38 

Good Friday 59, 60 

Easter Day 23, 34, 44 

Thanksgiving Day .... 21, 35, 38, 39, 57, 58 

Advent 50 

Christmas Day 25, 31 

The End of the Year 32 

A Day of Humiliation 18, 28 

Church Occasions 17, 29, 42, 51 

Missions 25, 35, 42 

National Days 55, 61 

In Time of Trouble 7, 14, 27, 33, 54 



SELECTION 1. 

Psalm 1. 

1 BLESSED is the man that walketh not in the counsel 
of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners : nor 
sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 

2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord : and in his 
law doth he meditate day and night. 

3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of 
water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season : his leaf 
also shall not wither ; and whatsoever he doeth shall pros- 
per. 

4 The ungodly are not so : but are like the chaff which 
the wind driveth away. 

5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judg- 
ment: nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. 

6 For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous : but 
the way of the ungodly shall perish. 

Psalm 2. 

7 WHY do the heathen rage : and the people imagine 
a vain thing ? 



SELECTION 1. 169 



8 The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers 
take counsel together : against the Lord, and against his 
Anointed, saying, 

9 Let us break their bands asunder : and cast away their 
cords from us. 

10 He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord 
shall have them in derision. 

11 Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath : and vex 
them in his sore displeasure. 

12 Yet have I set my King: upon my holy hill of Zion. 

13 I will declare the decree, the Lord hath said unto 
me : Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. 

14 Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for 
thine inheritance : and the uttermost parts of the earth for 
thy possession. 

15 Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron: thou shalt 
dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel. 

16 Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye 
judges of the earth. 

17 Serve the Lord with fear : and rejoice with trem- 
bling. 

18 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from 
the way : when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed 
are all they that put their trust in him. 

Psalm 4. 

19 HEAR me when I call, O God of my righteousness: 
thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy 
upon me, and hear my prayer. 

20 O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory 
into shame : how long will ye love vanity, and seek after 
leasing ? 

21 But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is 
godly for himself : the Lord will hear when I call unto 
him. 

22 Stand in awe, and sin not : commune with your own 
heart upon your bed, and be still. 

23 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness : and put your 
trust in the Lord. 

24 There be many that say, Who will show us any 
good : Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon 
us. 



170 THE PSALTER. 



25 Thou hast put gladness in my heart: more than in 
the time that their corn and their wine increased. 

26 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, 
Lord, only makest me dwell in safety. 

SELECTION 2. 

Psalm 5 : 1-7. 

1 GIVE ear to my words, O Lord : consider my medita- 
tion. 

2 Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my 
God : for unto thee will I pray. 

3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord : in 
the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will 
look up. 

4 For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wicked- 
ness: neither shall evil dwell with thee. 

5 The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest 
all workers of iniquity. 

6 Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the Lord 
will abhor the bloody and deceitful man. 

7 But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multi- 
tude of thy mercy : and in thy fear will I worship toward 
thy holy temple. 

Psalm 8. 

8 O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all 
the earth : who hast set thy glory above the heavens ! 

9 Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou 
ordained strength because of thine enemies : that thou 
mi gh test still the enemy and the avenger. 

10 When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers : 
the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ; 

11 What is man, that thou art mindful of him : and the 
son of man, that thou visitest him ? 

12 For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels : 
and hast crowned him with glory and honour. 

13 Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of 
thy hands : thou hast put all things under his feet ; 

14 All sheep and oxen: yea, and the beasts of the field ; 

15 The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea : and what- 
soever passeth through the paths of the seas. 



SELECTION 3. 



171 



16 O Lord our Lord: how excellent is thy name in all 
the earth ! 

Psalm 11. 

17 IN the Lord put I my trust : how say ye to my soul, 
Flee as a bird to your mountain ? 

18 For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready 
their arrow upon the string : that they may privily shoot at 
the upright in heart. 

19 If the foundations be destroyed : what can the right- 
eous do? 

20 The Lord is in his holy temple, the Lord's throne is in 
heaven : his eyes behold, his eyelids try the children of 
men. 

21 The Lord trieth the righteous: but the wicked and 
him that loveth violence his soul hateth. 

22 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brim- 
stone, and a horrible tempest : this shall be the portion of 
their cup. 

28 For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness : his 
countenance doth behold the upright. 

SELECTION 3. 

Psalm 13. 

1 HOW long wilt thou forget me, O Lord : for ever ? 
how long wilt thou hide thy face from me ? 

2 How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sor- 
row in my heart daily : how long shall mine enemy be 
exalted over me ? 

3 Consider and hear me, O Lord my God : lighten mine 
eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death ; 

4 Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him : 
and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. 

5 But I have trusted in thy mercy : my heart shall re- 
joice in thy salvation. 

6 I will sing unto the Lord: because he hath dealt 
bountifully with me. 

Psalm 15. 

7 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle : who shall 
dwell in thy holy hill ? 



172 THE PSALTER. 



8 He that walketh uprightly : and worketh righteous- 
ness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 

9 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil 
to his neighbour : nor taketh up a reproach against his 
neighbour. 

10 In whose eyes a vile person is contemned ; but he 
honoureth them that fear the Lord: he that sweareth to 
his own hurt, and changeth not. 

11 He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor 
taketh reward against the innocent : he that doeth these 
things shall never be moved. 

Psalm 16. 

12 PRESERVE me, O God : for in thee do I put my 
trust. 

13 O my soul, thou hast said unto the Lord: Thou art 
my Lord, my goodness extendeth not to thee ; 

14 But to the saints that are in the earth: and to the ex- 
cellent, in whom is all my delight. 

15 Their sorrows shall be multiplied that hasten after an- 
other god : their drink offerings of blood will I not offer, 
nor take up their names into my lips. 

16 The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of 
my cup : thou maintainest my lot. 

17 The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places : yea, 
I have a goodly heritage. 

18 I will bless the Lord, who hath given me counsel: 
my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. 

19 I have set the Lord always before me : because he is 
at my right hand, I shall not be moved. 

20 Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: 
my flesh also shall rest in hope. 

21 For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell : neither wilt 
thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 

22 Thou wilt show me the path of life ; in thy presence 
is fulness of joy: at thy right hand there are pleasures for 
evermore. 

SELECTION 4. 

Psalm 17: 1-9, 15. 
1 HEAR the right, Lord, attend unto my cry : give 
ear unto my praj r er, that goeth not out of feigned lips. 



SELECTION 4. 173 



2 Let my sentence come forth from thy presence : let 
thine eyes behold the things that are equal. 

3 Thou hast proved mine heart, thou hast visited me in 
the night ; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing : I am 
purposed that my mouth shall not transgress. 

4 Concerning the works of men, by the word of thy 
lips: I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. 

5 Hold up my goings in thy paths : that my footsteps 
slip not. 

6 I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O 
God : incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech. 

7 Show thy marvellous loving- kindness, O thou that 
savest by thy right hand them which put their trust in 
thee: from those that rise up against them. 

8 Keep me as the apple of the eye : hide me under the 
shadow of thy wings, 

9 From the wicked that oppress me : from my deadly 
enemies, who compass me about. 

10 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I 
shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. 

Psalm 18: 1-19. 
Ill WILL love thee : O Lord, my strength. 

12 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliv- 
erer: my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my 
buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. 

13 1 will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised : 
so shall I be saved from mine enemies. 

14 The sorrows of death compassed me : and the floods 
of ungodly men made me afraid. 

15 The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares 
of death prevented me. 

16 In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto 
my God : he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry 
came before him, even into his ears. 

17 Then the earth shook and trembled : the foundations 
also of the hills moved and were shaken, because he was 
wroth. 

18 There went up a smoke out of his nostrils: and fire 
out of his mouth devoured, coals were kindled by it. 

19 He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and 
darkness was under his feet. 



174 



THE PSALTER. 



20 And he rode upon a cherub, and did fly : yea, he did 
fly upon the wings of the wind. 

21 He made darkness his secret place: his pavilion 
round about him were dark waters and thick clouds of the 
skies. 

22 At the brightness that was before him his thick clouds 
passed : hail stones and coals of fire. 

23 The Lord also thundered in the heavens, and the 
Highest gave his voice: hail stones and coals of fire. 

24 Yea, he sent out his arrows, and scattered them : and 
he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them. 

25 Then the channels of waters were seen, and the foun- 
dations of the world were discovered at thy rebuke, O 
Lord : at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils. 

26 He sent from above, he took me: he drew me out of 
many waters. 

27 He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from 
them which hated me: for they were too strong for me. 

28 They prevented me in the day of my calamity : but 
the Lord was my stay. 

29 He brought me forth also into a large place : he de- 
livered me, because he delighted in me. 

SELECTION 5. 

Psalm 18: 25-35. 

1 WITH the merciful thou wilt show thyself merciful : 
with an upright man thou wilt show thyself upright ; 

2 With the pure thou wilt show thyself pure : and with 
the froward thou wilt show thyself froward. 

3 For thou wilt save the afflicted people : but wilt bring 
down high looks. 

4 For thou wilt light my candle : the Lord my God will 
enlighten my darkness. 

5 For by thee I have run through a troop : and by my 
God have I leaped over a wall. 

6 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord 
is tried ; he is a buckler to all those that trust in him. 

7 For who is God save the Lord : or who is a rock save 
our God ? 

8 It is God that girdeth me with strength: and maketh 
my way perfect. 



SELECTION 5. 175 



9 He maketb my feet like hinds' feet : and setteth me 
upon my high places. 

10 He teacheth my hands to war : so that a bow of steel 
is broken by mine arms. 

11 Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: 
and thy right hand hath holden me up, and thy gentleness 
hath made me great. 

Psalm 19. 

12 THE heavens declare the glory of God : and the 
firmament showeth his handywork. 

13 Day unto day uttereth speech : and night unto night 
showeth knowledge. 

14 There is no speech nor language : where their voice 
is not heard. 

■ 15 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their 
words to the end of the world : In them hath he set a tab- 
ernacle for the sun, 

16 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber: 
and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. 

17 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and 
his circuit unto the ends of it : and there is nothing hid 
from the heat thereof. 

18 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul : 
the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the sim- 
ple. 

19 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the 
heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlighten- 
ing the eyes. 

20 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the 
judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 

21 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than 
much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honey- 
comb. 

22 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in 
keeping of them there is great reward. 

23 Who can understand his errors : cleanse thou me 
from secret faults. 

24 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins ; 
let them not have dominion over me : then shall I be up- 
right, and I shall be innocent from the great transgres- 
sion. 



176 THE PSALTER. 



25 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of 
my heart, be acceptable in thy sight : O Lord, my strength, 
and my redeemer. 

SELECTION 6. 

Psalm 20. 

1 THE Lord hear thee in the day of trouble: the name 
of the God of Jacob defend thee ; 

2 Send thee help from the sanctuary : and strengthen 
thee out of Zion ; 

3 Remember all thy offerings : and accept thy burnt 
sacrifice ; 

4 Grant thee according to thine own heart: and fulfil 
all thy counsel. 

5 We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of 
our God we will set up our banners : the Lord fulfil all thy 
petitions. 

6 Now know I that the Lord saveth his anointed : he 
will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength 
of his right hand. 

7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses : but we 
will remember the name of the Lord our God. 

8 They are brought down and fallen : but we are risen, 
and stand upright. 

9 Save, Lord : let the king hear us when we call. 

Psalm 23. 

10 THE Lord is my shepherd : I shall not want. 

11 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he 
leadeth me beside the still waters. 

12 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of 
righteousness for his name's sake. 

13 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow 
of death, I will fear no evil : for thou art with me ; thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me. 

14 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of 
mine enemies : thou anointest my head with oil ; my cup 
runneth over. 

15 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the 
days of my life : and I will dwell in the house of the Lord 
for ever. 



SELECTION 7. 177 



Psalm 24. 

16 THE earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof: the 
world, and they that dwell therein. 

17 For he hath founded it upon the seas : and established 
it upon the floods. 

18 Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord: or who 
shall stand in his holy place ? 

19 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart: who 
hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceit- 
fully. 

20 He shall receive the blessing from the Lord : and right- 
eousness from the God of his salvation. 

21 This is the generation of them that seek him: that 
seek thy face, O Jacob. 

22 Lift up your heads, O ye gates ; and be ye lifted up, 
ye everlasting doors: and the King of glory shall come 
in. 

23 Who is this King of glory : The Lord strong and 
mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. 

24 Lift up your heads, ye gates ; even lift them up, 
ye everlasting doors : and the King of glory shall come in. 

25 Who is this King of glory : The Lord of hosts, he is 
the King of glory. 

SELECTION 7. 

Psalm 25. 

1 UNTO thee, O Lord : do I lift up my soul. 

2 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let 
not mine enemies triumph over me. 

3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed : let them 
be ashamed which transgress without cause. 

4 Show me thy ways, Lord : teach me thy paths. 

5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me : for thou art the 
God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. 

6 Remember, O Lord, thy tender mercies and thy lov- 
ing-kindnesses : for they have been ever of old. 

7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my trans- 
gressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for 
thy goodness* sake, O Lord. 

8 Good and upright is the Lord : therefore will he teach 
sinners in the way. 



178 THE PSALTER. 



9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek 
will he teach his way. 

10 All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth: unto 
such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. 

11 For thy name's sake, O Lord: pardon mine iniquity; 
for it is great 

12 What man is he that feareth the Lord : him shall he 
teach in the way that he shall choose. 

13 His soul shall dwell at ease: and his seed shall inherit 
the earth. 

14 The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him : 
and he will show them his covenant. 

15 Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord: for he shall 
pluck my feet out of the net. 

16 Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me: for I 
am desolate and afflicted. 

17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged : O bring thou 
me out of my distresses. 

18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain: and forgive 
all my sins. 

19 Consider mine enemies, for they are many: and they 
hate me with cruel hatred. 

20 O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be 
ashamed ; for I put my trust in thee. 

21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me : for I wait 
on thee. 

22 Redeem Israel, God : out of all his troubles. 

SELECTION 8. 

Psalm 26: 8-12. 

1 LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house : and 
the place where thine honour dwelleth. 

2 Gather not my soul with sinners: nor my life with 
bloody men, 

3 In whose hands is mischief : and their right hand is 
full of bribes. 

4 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity : redeem 
me, and be merciful unto me. 

5 My foot standeth in an even place : in the congrega- 
tions will I bless the Lord. 



SELECTION 8. 179 



Psalm 27. 

6 THE Lord is rny light and my salvation ; whom shall 
I fear: the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom 
shall I be afraid ? 

7 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, 
came upon me to eat up my flesh : they stumbled and 
fell. 

8 Though a host should encamp against me, my heart 
shall not fear : though war should rise against me, in this 
will I be confident. 

9 One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek 
after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the 
days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to 
inquire in his temple. 

10 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his 
pavilion : in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me ; 
he shall set me up upon a rock. 

11 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine 
enemies round about me : therefore will I offer in his tab- 
ernacle sacrifices of joy ; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises 
unto the Lord. 

12 Hear, Lord, when I cry with my voice : have 
mercy also upon me, and answer me. 

13 When thou saidst, Seek ye my face : my heart said 
unto thee, Thy face, Lord, will I seek. 

14 Hide not thy face far from me ; put not thy servant 
away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, 
neither forsake me, God of my salvation. 

15 When my father and my mother forsake me : then 
the Lord will take me up. 

16 Teach me thy way, O Lord : and lead me in a plain 
path, because of mine enemies. 

17 Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies : 
for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as 
breathe out cruelty. 

18 I had fainted: unless I had believed to see the good- 
ness of the Lord in the land of the living. 

19 Wait on the Lord : be of good courage, and he shall 
strengthen thine heart ; wait, I say, on the Lord. 

20 BLESSED be the Lord : because he hath heard the 
voice of my supplications. 



180 



THE PSALTER. 



21 The Lord is my strength and my shield ; my heart 
trusted in him, and I am helped : therefore my heart greatly 
rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. 

22 The Lord is their strength: and he is the saving 
strength of his anointed. 

23 Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed 
them also, and lift them up for ever. 

SELECTION 9. 

Psalm 28: 6-9. 

1 GIVE unto the Lord, O ye mighty : give unto the 
Lord glory and strength. 

2 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: 
worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. 

3 The voice of the Lord is" upon the waters : the God 
of glory thundereth ; the Lord is upon many waters. 

4 The voice of the Lord is powerful : the voice of the 
Lord is full of majesty. 

5 The voice of the Lord breaketh the cedars : yea, the 
Lord breaketh the cedars of Lebanon. 

6 He maketh them also to skip like a calf : Lebanon and 
Sirion like a young unicorn. 

7 The voice of the Lord : divideth the flames of fire. 

8 The voice of the Lord shaketh the wilderness : the 
Lord shaketh the wilderness of Kadesh. 

9 The voice of the Lord maketh the hinds to calve, and 
discovereth the forests : and in his temple doth every one 
speak of his glory. 

10 The Lord sittethupon the flood: yea, the Lord sitteth 
King for ever. 

11 The Lord will give strength unto his people: the 
Lord will bless his people with peace. 

Psalm 29. 

12 I WILL extol thee, O Lord, for thou hast lifted me 
up: and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. 

13 Lord my God, I cried unto thee: and thou hast 
healed me. 

14 Lord, thou hast brought up my soul from the 
grave : thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down 
to the pit. 



SELECTION 10. 181 



15 Sing unto the Lord, O ye saints of his : and give 
thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. 

16 For his anger endure th but a moment ; in his favour is 
life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in 
the morning. 

17 And in my prosperity I said : I shall never be moved. 

18 Lord, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to 
stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled. 

19 I cried to thee, O Lord : and unto the Lord I made 
supplication. 

20 What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to 
the pit : Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy 
truth? 

21 Hear, O Lord, and have mercy upon me : Lord, be 
thou my helper. 

22 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing : 
thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with glad- 
ness ; 

23 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and 
not be silent : O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto 
thee for ever. 

SELECTION 10. 

Psalm 31 : 1-5, 15-16, 19-24. 

1 IN thee, O Lord, do I put my trust : let me never be 
ashamed ; deliver me in thy righteousness. 

2 Bow down thine ear to me ; deliver me speedily : be 
thou my strong rock, for a house of defense to save me. 

3 For thou art my rock and my fortress : therefore for 
thy name's sake lead me, and guide me. 

4 Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for 
me : for thou art my strength. 

5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast re- 
deemed me, O Lord God of truth. 

6 My times are in thy hand : deliver me from the hand 
of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. 

7 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant : save me 
for thy mercies' sake. 

8 Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid 
up for them that fear thee : which thou hast wrought for 
them that trust in thee before the sons of men ! 



182 THE PSALTER. 



9 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence 
from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a 
pavilion from the strife of tongues. 

10 Blessed be the Lord : for he hath showed me his 
marvellous kindness in a strong city. 

11 For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine 
eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice of my supplica- 
tions when I cried unto thee. 

12 O love the Lord, all ye his saints : for the Lord pre- 
serveth the faithful, and plentifully rewardeth the proud 
doer. 

13 Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your 
heart : all ye that hope in the Lord. 

Psalm 32. 

14 BLESSED is he whose transgression is forgiven : 
whose sin is covered. 

15 Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not 
iniquity : and in whose spirit there is no guile. 

16 When I kept silence : my bones waxed old through 
my roaring all the day long. 

17 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me : my 
moisture is turned into the drought of summer. 

18 I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity 
have I not hid : I said, I will confess my transgressions 
unto the Lord ; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my 
sin. 

19 For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee 
in a time when thou mayest be found : surely in the floods 
of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him. 

20 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me 
from trouble : thou shalt compass me about with songs of 
deliverance. 

21 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which 
thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. 

22 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, w T hich have no 
understanding : whose mouth must be held in with bit and 
bridle, lest they come near unto thee. 

23 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked : but he that 
trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. 

24 Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and 
shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart. 



SELECTION 11. 183 



SELECTION 11. 

Psalm 33. 

1 REJOICE in the Lord, O ye righteous : for praise is 
comely for the upright. 

2 Praise the Lord with harp : sing unto him with the 
psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. 

3 Sing unto him a new song : play skilfully with a loud 
noise. 

4 For the word of the Lord is right : and all his works 
are done in truth. 

5 He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is 
full of the goodness of the Lord. 

6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made : and 
all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 

7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as a heap : 
he layeth up the depth in storehouses. 

8 Let all the earth fear the Lord : let all the inhabitants 
of the world stand in awe of him. 

9 For he spake, and it was done : he commanded, and 
it stood fast. 

10 The Lord bringeth the counsel of the heathen to 
nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none 
effect. 

11 The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever : the 
thoughts of his heart to all generations. 

12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord : and the 
people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. 

13 The Lord looketh from heaven : he beholdeth all the 
sons of men. 

14 From the place of his habitation : he looketh upon all 
the inhabitants of the earth. 

15 He fashion eth their hearts alike : he considereth all 
their works. 

16 There is no king saved by the multitude of a host : 
a mighty man is not delivered by much strength. 

17 A horse is a vain thing for safety : neither shall he 
deliver any by his great strength. 

18 Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear 
him : upon them that hope in his mercy ; 

19 To deliver their soul from death: and to keep them 
alive in famine. 



184 



THE PSALTER. 



20 Our soul waiteth for the Lord : he is our help and our 
shield. 

21 For our heart shall rejoice in him: because we have 
trusted in his holy name. 

22 Let thy mercy, O Lord, be upon us: according as we 
hope in thee. 

SELECTION 12. 

Psalm 34. 

1 I WILL bless the Lord at all times : his praise shall 
continually be in my mouth. 

2 My soul shall make her boast in the Lord : the humble 
shall hear thereof, and be glad. 

3 O magnify the Lord with me : and let us exalt his 
name together. 

4 I sought the Lord, and he heard me : and delivered 
me from all my fears. 

5 They looked unto him, and were lightened : and their 
faces were not ashamed. 

6 This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him : and 
saved him out of all his troubles. 

7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them 
that fear him : and delivereth them. 

8 O taste and see that the Lord is good : blessed is the 
man that trusteth in him. 

9 O fear the Lord, ye his saints : for there is no want 
to them that fear him. 

10 The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they 
that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. 

11 Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you 
the fear of the Lord. 

12 What man is he that desireth life : and loveth many 
days, that he may see good ? 

13 Keep thy tongue from evil : and thy lips from speak- 
ing guile. 

14 Depart from evil, and do good ; seek peace, and pur- 
sue it. 

15 The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous : and his 
ears are open unto their cry. 

16 The face of the Lord is against them that do evil : to 
cut off the remembrance of them from the earth. 



SELECTION 13. 



185 



17 The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth : and deliv- 
ereth them out of all their troubles. 

18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken 
heart : and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. 

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the 
Lord delivereth him out of them all. 

20 He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken. 

21 Evil shall slay the wicked : and they that hate the 
righteous shall be desolate. 

22 The Lord rcdeemeth the soul of his servants: and 
none of them that trust in him shall be desolate. 

Psalm 36: 5-10. 

23 THY mercy, Lord, is in the heavens : and thy faith- 
fulness reacheth unto the clouds. 

24 Thy righteousness is like the great mountains : thy 
judgments are a great deep : Lord, thou preservest man 
and beast. 

25 How excellent is thy loving-kindness, God : there- 
fore the children of men put their trust under the shadow 
of thy wings. 

26 They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of 
thy house : and thou shalt make them drink of the river of 
thy pleasures. 

27 For with thee is the fountain of life : in thy light shall 
we see light. 

28 continue thy loving-kindness unto them that know 
thee : and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. 

SELECTION 13. 

Psalm 37 : 1-9, 23-40. 

1 FRET not thyself because of evil doers: neither be 
envious against the workers of iniquity. 

2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass : and 
wither as the green herb. 

3 Trust in the Lord, and do good : so shalt thou dwell 
in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. 

4 Delight thyself also in the Lord : and he shall give 
thee the desires of thine heart. 

5 Commit thy way unto the Lord : trust also in him ; 
and he shall bring it to pass. 



186 THE PSALTER. 



6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the 
light: and thy judgment as the noonday. 

7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him : fret not 
thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because 
of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. 

8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath : fret not thyself 
in any wise to do evil. 

9 For evil doers shall be cut off : but those that wait 
upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. 

10 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord : 
and he delighteth in his way. 

11 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for 
the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. 

12 I have been young, and now am old : yet have I 
not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging 
bread. 

13 He is ever merciful, and lendeth: and his seed is 
blessed. 

14 Depart from evil, and do good : and dwell for ever- 
more. 

15 For the Lord loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his 
saints, they are preserved for ever : but the seed of the 
wicked shall be cut off. 

16 The righteous shall inherit the land : and dwell therein 
for ever. 

17 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom: and 
his tongue talketh of judgment. 

18 The law of his God is in his heart: none of his steps 
shall slide. 

19 The wicked watcheth the righteous: and seeketh to 
slay him. 

20 The Lord will not leave him in his hand: nor con- 
demn him when he is judged. 

21 Wait on the Lord, and keep his way, and he shall 
exalt thee to inherit the land : when the wicked are cut off, 
thou shalt see it. 

22 I have seen the wicked in great power : and spreading 
himself like a green bay tree. 

23 Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not : yea, I 
sought him, but he could not be found. 

24 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright : for 
the end of that man is peace. 



SELECTION 14. 187 



25 But the transgressors shall be destroyed together : the 
end of the wicked shall be cut off. 

26 But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord : he 
is their strength in the time of trouble. 

27 And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them : he 
shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because 
they trust in him. 

SELECTION 14. 

Psalm 39. 

1 I SAID, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not 
with my tongue : I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while 
the wicked is before me. 

2 I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, even from 
good : and my sorrow was stirred. 

3 My heart was hot within me ; while I was musing 
the fire burned : then spake I with my tongue. 

4 Lord, make me to know mine end, and the mea- 
sure of my days, what it is : that I may know how frail 
I am. 

5 Behold, thou hast made my days as a handbreadth ; 
and mine age is as nothing before thee : verily every man 
at his best state is altogether vanity. 

6 Surely every man walketh in a vain show ; surely they 
are disquieted in vain : he heapeth up riches, and knoweth 
not who shall gather them. 

7 And now, Lord, what wait I for : my hope is in thee. 

8 Deliver me from all my transgressions : make me not 
the reproach of the foolish. 

9 I was dumb, I opened not my mouth : because thou 
didst it. 

10 Remove thy stroke away from me : I am consumed 
by the blow of thine hand. 

11 When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, 
thou makest his beauty to consume away like a moth: 
surely every man is vanity. 

12 Hear my prayer, O Lord, and give ear unto my cry ; 
hold not thy peace at my tears : for I am a stranger with 
thee, and a sojourner, as all my fathers were. 

13 O spare me, that I may recover strength : before I 
go hence, and be no more. 



188 



THE PSALTER. 



Psalm 40: 1-13, 16-17. 

14 I WAITED patiently for the Lord: and he inclined 
unto me, and heard my cry. 

15 He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of 
the miry clay : and set my feet upon a rock, and established 
my goings. 

16 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise 
unto our God : many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust 
in the Lord. 

17 Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord his trust : 
and respect eth not the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. 

18 Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works 
which thou hast done : and thy thoughts which are to us- 
ward: 

19 They cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I 
would declare and speak of them, they are more than can 
be numbered. 

20 Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire ; mine ears 
hast thou opened : burnt offering and sin offering hast thou 
not required. 

21 Then said I, Lo, I come : in the volume of the book 
it is written of me, 

22 I delight to do thy will, O my God : yea, thy law is 
within my heart. 

23 I have preached righteousness in the great congrega- 
tion : lo, I have not refrained my lips, Lord, thou knowest. 

24 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart ; I 
have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have 
not concealed thy loving-kindness and thy truth from the 
great congregation. 

25 Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O 
Lord : let thy loving-kindness and thy truth continually 
preserve me. 

26 For innumerable evils have compassed me about; 
mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not 
able to look up: they are more than the hairs of mine 
head; therefore my heart faileth me. 

27 Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me: O Lord, make 
haste to help me. 

28 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in 
thee : let such as love thy salvation say continually, The 
Lord be magnified. 



SELECTION 15. 



189 



29 But I am poor and needy ; yet the Lord thinketh 
upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no 
tarrying, O my God. 

SELECTION 15. 

Psalm 42. 

1 AS the hart panteth after the water brooks: so pant- 
eth my soul after thee, O God. 

2 My soul thirsteth for God. for the living God : when 
shall I come and appear before God ? 

3 My tears have been my meat day and night : while 
they continually say unto me, Where is thy God ? 

4 When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in 
me, for I had gone with the multitude: I went with them 
to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with 
a multitude that kept holy day. 

5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul ? and why art 
thou disquieted in me ? hope thou in God : for I shall yet 
praise him for the help of his countenance. 

6 O my God, my soul is cast down within me : there- 
fore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of 
the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar. 

7 Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy water- 
spouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. 

8 Yet the Lord will command his loving-kindness in the 
daytime : and in the night his song shall be with me, and 
my prayer unto the God of my life. 

9 I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgot- 
ten me : why go I mourning because of the oppression of 
the enemy ? 

10 As with a sword in my bones, mine enemies reproach 
me: while they say daily unto me, Where is thy God ? 

11 Why art thou cast down, O my soul ? and why art 
thou disquieted within me ? hope thou in God : for I shall 
yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and 
my God. 

Psalm 43. 

12 JUDGE me, O God, and plead my cause against an 
ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and un- 
just man. 



190 



THE PSALTER. 



13 For thou art the God of my strength ; why dost thou | 
cast me off : why go I mourning" because of the oppression 1 
of the enemy ? 

14 O send out thy light and thy truth; let them lead 
me: let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy 
tabernacles. 

15 Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my j 
exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, 6 
God my God. 

16 Why art thou cast down, O my soul ? and why art j 
thou disquieted within me ? hope in God: for I shall yet j 
praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my | 
God. 

Psalm 44: 1-8. 

17 WE have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have 
told us: what work thou didst in their days, in the times ! 
of old. 

18 How thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, 
and plantedst them : how thou didst afflict the people, and 
cast them out. 

19 For they got not the land in possession by their own 
sword, neither did their own arm save them : but thy right 
hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, 
because thou hadst a favour unto them. 

20 Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances 
for Jacob. 

21 Through thee will we push down our enemies: 
through thy name will we tread them under that rise up 
against us. 

22 For I will not trust in my bow: neither shall my 
sword save me. 

23 But thou hast saved us from our enemies: and hast 
put them to shame that hated us. 

24 In God we boast all the day long: and praise thy 
name for ever. 

SELECTION 16. 

Psalm 45. 

1 MY heart is inditing a good matter : I speak of the 
things which I have made touching the King ; my tongue 
is the pen of a ready writer. 



SELECTION 16. 



191 



2 Thou art fairer than the children of men: grace is 
poured into thy lips ; therefore God hath blessed thee for 
ever. 

3 Gird thy sword upon thy thigh, most Mighty : with 
thy glory and thy majesty. 

4 And in thy majesty ride prosperously, because of 
truth and meekness and righteousness : and thy right hand 
shall teach thee terrible things. 

5 Thine arrows are sharp in the heart of the King's ene- 
mies: whereby the people fall under thee. 

6 Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever : the sceptre 
of thy kingdom is a right sceptre. 

7 Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness : 
therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of 
gladness above thy fellows. 

8 All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and 
cassia : out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made 
thee glad. 

9 Kings' daughters were among thy honourable women : 
upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir. 

10 Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine 
ear : forget also thine own people, and thy father's house ; 

11 So shall the King greatly desire thy beauty : for he 
is thy Lord, and worship thou him. 

12 And the daughter of Tyre shall be there with a gift : 
even the rich among the people shall entreat thy favour. 

13 The King's daughter is all glorious within : her 
clothing is of wrought gold. 

14 She shall be brought unto the King in raiment of 
needlework : the virgins her companions that follow her 
shall be brought unto thee. 

15 With gladness and rejoicing shall they be brought: 
they shall enter into the King's palace. 

16 Instead of thy fathers shall be thy children : whom 
thou mayest make princes in all the earth. 

17 I will make thy name to be remembered in all gener- 
ations : therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and 
ever. 

Psalm 46. 

18 GOD is our refuge and strength : a very present help 
in trouble. 

19 Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be re- 



192 THE PSALTER. 



moved : and though the mountains be carried into the 
midst of the sea ; 

20 Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled: 
though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. 

21 There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad 
the city of God : the holy place of the tabernacles of the 
Most High. 

22 God is in the midst of her ; she shall not be moved : 
God shall help her, and that right early. 

23 The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved : he 
uttered his voice, the earth melted. 

24 The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our 
refuge. 

25 Come, behold the works of the Lord : what desolations 
he hath made in the earth. 

26 He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth : 
he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder ; he 
burnetii the chariot in the fire. 

27 Be still, and know that I am God : I will be exalted 
among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. 

28 The Lord of hosts is with us: the God of Jacob is our 
refuge. 

SELECTION 17. 

Psalm 47. 

1 O CLAP your hands, all ye people : shout unto God 
with the voice of triumph. 

2 For the Lord most high is terrible : he is a great King 
over all the earth. 

3 He shall subdue the people under us: and the nations 
under our feet. 

4 He shall choose our inheritance for us : the excellency 
of Jacob whom he loved. 

5 God is gone up with a shout : the Lord with the sound 
of a trumpet. 

6 Sing praises to God, sing praises : sing praises unto our 
King, sing praises. 

7 For God is the King of all the earth : sing ye praises 
with understanding. 

8 God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the 
throne of his holiness. 



SELECTION 18. 



193 



9 The princes of the people are gathered together, even 
the people of the God of Abraham : for the shields of the 
earth belong unto God ; he is greatly exalted. 

Psalm 48. 

10 GREAT is the Lord, and greatly to be praised : in 
the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. 

11 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is 
mount Zion : on the sides of the north, the city of the great 
King. 

12 God is known : in her palaces for a refuge. 

13 For, lo, the kings were assembled : they passed by 
together. 

14 They saw it, and so they marvelled: they were 
troubled, and hasted away. 

15 Fear took hold upon them there, and pain: as of a 
woman in travail. 

16 Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish: with an east 
wind. 

17 As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the 
Lord of hosts, in the city of our God : God will establish 
it for ever. 

18 We have thought of thy loving-kindness, O God: in 
the midst of thy temple. 

19 According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto 
the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteous- 
ness. 

20 Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah 
be glad: because of thy judgments. 

21 Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the 
towers thereof. 

22 Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces: 
that ye may tell it to the generation following. 

23 For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be 
our guide even unto death. 

SELECTION 18. 

Psalm 51. 

1 HAVE mercy upon me, O God, according to thy 
loving-kindness: according unto the multitude of thy 
tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 



194 THE PSALTER. 



2 Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity : and cleanse 
me from my sin. 

3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is 
ever before me. 

4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this 
evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when 
thou speakest, and be clear when thou j udgest. 

5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity : and in sin did my 
mother conceive me. 

6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts : and 
in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wis- 
dom. 

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean : wash me, 
and I shall be whiter than snow. 

8 Make me to hear joy and gladness: that the bones 
which thou hast broken may rejoice. 

9 Hide thy face from my sins: and blot out all mine 
iniquities. 

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right 
spirit within me. 

11 Cast me not away from thy presence : and take not 
thy Holy Spirit from me. 

12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation: and up- 
hold me with thy free Spirit. 

13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways : and sinners 
shall be converted unto thee. 

14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God 
of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy 
righteousness. 

15 O Lord, open thou my lips: and my mouth shall show 
forth thy praise. 

16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would 1 give it: 
thou delightest not in burnt offering. 

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit : a broken 
and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. 

18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou 
the walls of Jerusalem. 

19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of 
righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offer- 
ing: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar. 



SELECTION 19. 



195 



SELECTION 19. 

Psalm 53. 

1 THE fool hath said in his heart, There is no God: 
Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity; 
there is none that doeth good. 

2 God looked down from heaven upon the children of 
men : to see if there were any that did understand, that did 
seek God. 

3 Every one of them is gone back ; they are altogether 
become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one. 

4 Have the workers of iniquity no knowledge : who eat up 
my people as they eat bread ; they have not called upon God. 

5 There were they in great fear, where no fear was: for 
God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth 
against thee; thou hast put them to shame, because God 
hath despised them. 

6 Oh that the salvation of Israel were come out of Zion : 
When God bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob 
shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad. 

Psalm 56 : 3-4, 8-13. 

7 WHAT time I am afraid : I will trust in thee. 

8 In God I will praise his word, in God I have put 
my trust: I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. 

9 Thou tellest my wanderings ; put thou my tears into 
thy bottle : are they not in thy book ? 

10 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn 
back : this I know ; for God is for me. 

11 In God will I praise his word : in the Lord will I 
praise his word. 

12 In God have I put my trust : I will not be afraid 
what man can do unto me. 

13 Thy vows are upon me, O God : I will render praises 
unto thee. 

14 For thou hast delivered my soul from death; wilt 
not thou deliver my feet from falling: that I may walk 
before God in the light of the living ? 

Psalm 57. 

15 BE merciful unto me, God, be merciful unto me, 
for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy 



196 



THE PSALTER. 



wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be 
overpast. 

16 I will cry unto God most high : unto God that per- 
formeth all things for me. 

17 He shall send from heaven, and save me from the re- 
proach of him that would swallow me up : God shall send 
forth his mercy and his truth. 

18 My soul is among lions; and I lie even among them 
that are set on fire : even the sons of men, whose teeth are 
spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword. 

19 Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens : let thy 
glory be above all the earth. 

20 They have prepared a net for my steps ; my soul is 
bowed down : they have digged a pit before me, into the 
midst whereof they are fallen themselves. 

21 My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will 



22 Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I 
myself will awake early. 

23 I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people : I will 
sing unto thee among the nations. 

24 For thy mercy is great unto the heavens : and thy 
truth unto the clouds. 

25 Be thou exalted, God, above the heavens: let thy 
glory be above all the earth. 



1 HEAR my cry, O God : attend unto my prayer. 

2 From the end* of the earth will I cry unto thee when 
my heart is overwhelmed : lead me to the rock that is 
higher than I. 

3 For thou hast been a shelter for me : and a strong 
tower from the enemy. 

4 I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever : I will trust in 
the covert of thy wings. 

5 For thou, O God, hast heard my vows : thou hast given 
me the heritage of those that fear thy name. 

6 Thou wilt prolong the king's life: and his years as 
many generations. 




SELECTION 20. 



Psalm 61. 



SELECTION 21. 197 



7 He shall abide before God for ever : O prepare mercy 
and truth, which may preserve him. 

8 So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever : that I 
may daily perform my vows. 

Psalm 62. 

9 TRULY my soul waiteth upon God : from him cometh 
my salvation. 

10 He only is my rock and my salvation : he is my de- 
fense ; I shall not be greatly moved. 

11 How long will ye imagine mischief against a man: 
ye shall be slain all of you; as a bowing wall shall ye be, 
and as a tottering fence. 

12 They only consult to cast him down from his excel- 
lency: they delight in lies; they bless with their mouth, 
but they curse inwardly. 

13 My soul, wait thou only upon God : for my expecta- 
tion is from him. 

14 He only is my rock and my salvation : he is my de- 
fense ; I shall not be moved. 

15 In God is my salvation and my glory : the rock of 
my strength, and my refuge, is in God. 

16 Trust in him at all times, ye people : pour out your 
heart before him ; God is a refuge for us. 

17 Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high 
degree are a lie : to be laid in the balance, they are alto- 
gether lighter than vanity. 

18 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in rob- 
bery : if riches increase, set not your heart upon them. 

19 God hath spoken once ; twice have I heard this : that 
power belongeth unto God. 

20 Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou 
renderest to every man according to his work. 

SELECTION 21. 

Psalm 63. 

1 O GOD, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my 
soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry 
and thirsty land, where no water is ; 

2 To see thy power and thy glory : so as I have seen 
thee in the sanctuary. 



198 



THE PSALTER. 



3 Because thy loving-kindness is better than life : my 
lips shall praise thee. 

4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up 
my hands in thy name. 

5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness : 
and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips: 

6 When I remember thee upon my bed: and meditate 
on thee in the night watches. 

7 Because thou hast been my help: therefore in the 
shadow of thy wings will I rejoice. 

8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand up- 
holdeth me. 

9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it: shall go 
into the lower parts of the earth. 

10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion 
for foxes. 

11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that 
sweareth by him shall glory : but the mouth of them that 
speak lies shall be stopped. 

Psalm 65. 

12 PRAISE waiteth for thee, O God, in Zion: and unto 
thee shall the vow be performed. 

13 thou that hearest prayer: unto thee shall all flesh 

come. 

14 Iniquities prevail against me: as for our transgres- 
sions, thou shalt purge them away. 

15 Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest 
to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts : 
we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even 
of thy holy temple. 

16 By terrible things in righteousness wilt thou answer 
us, God of our salvation : who art the confidence of all 
the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off upon 
the sea ; 

17 Which by his strength setteth fast the mountains: 
being girded with power : 

18 Which stilleth the noise of the seas: the noise of their 
waves, and the tumult of the people. 

19 They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid 
at thy tokens: thou makest the outgoings of the morning 
and evening to rejoice. 



SELECTION 22. 



199 



20 Thou visitest the earth, and waterest it ; thou greatly 
enrichest it with the river of God, which is full of water : 
thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for 
it. 

21 Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly; thou 
settlest the furrows thereof : thou makest it soft with show- 
ers; thou blessest the springing thereof. 

22 Thou crownest the year with thy goodness : and thy 
paths drop fatness. 

23 They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness : and 
the little hills rejoice on every side. 

24 The pastures are clothed with flocks : the valleys also 
are covered over with corn ; they shout for joy, they also 
sing. 

SELECTION 22. 

Psalm 66. 

1 MAKE a joyful noise unto God: all ye lands: 

2 Sing forth the honour of his name : make his praise 
glorious. 

3 Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works: 
through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies 
submit themselves unto thee. 

4 All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto 
thee : they shall sing to thy name. 

5 Come and see the works of God : he is terrible in his 
doing toward the children of men. 

6 He turned the sea into dry land : they went through 
the flood on foot ; there did we rejoice in him. 

7 He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the 
nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. 

8 O bless our God, ye people : and make the voice of his 
praise to be heard : 

9 Which holdeth our soul in life : and suffereth not our 
feet to be moved. 

10 For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried 
us, as silver is tried. 

11 Thou broughtest us into the net : thou laidst affliction 
upon our loins. 

12 Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads ; we 
went through fire and through water : but thou broughtest 
us out into a wealthy place. 



200 



THE PSALTER. 



13 I will go into thy house with burnt offerings : I will 
pay thee my vows, 

14 Which my lips have uttered, and my mouth hath 
spoken : when I was in trouble. 

15 I will offer unto thee burnt sacrifices of fatlings, with, 
the incense of rams : I will offer bullocks with goats. 

16 Come and hear, all ye that fear God: and I will de- 
clare what he hath done for my soul. 

17 I cried unto him with my mouth: and he was ex- 
tolled with my tongue. 

18 If I regard iniquity in my heart: the Lord will not 
hear me. 

19 But verily God hath heard me: he hath attended to 
the voice of my prayer. 

20 Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my 
prayer : nor his mercy from me. 

Psalm 67. 

21 GOD be merciful unto us, and bless us : and cause 
his face to shine upon us ; 

22 That thy way may be known upon earth : thy saving 
health among" all nations. 

23 Let the people praise thee, O God : let all the people 
praise thee. 

24 O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou 
shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations 
upon earth. 

25 Let the people praise thee, O God : let all the people 
praise thee. 

26 Then shall the earth yield her increase : and God, even 
our own God, shall bless us. 

27 God shall bless us : and all the ends of the earth shall 
fear him. 

SELECTION 23. 

Psalm 68 : 1-19, 28-29, 31-35. 

1 LET God arise, let his enemies be scattered : let them 
also that hate him flee before him. 

2 As smoke is driven away, so drive them away : as wax 
meiteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the pre- 
sence of God. 



SELECTION 23. 201 



3 But let the righteous be glad ; let them rejoice before 
God : yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. 

4 Sing unto God, sing praises to his name : extol him 
that rideth upon the heavens by his name J AH, and rejoice 
before him. 

5 A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows: 
is God in his holy habitation. 

6 God setteth the solitary in families ; he bringeth out 
those which are bound with chains : but the rebellious dwell 
in a dry land. 

7 O God, when thou wen test forth before thy people : 
when thou didst march through the wilderness ; 

8 The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the pre- 
sence of God : even Sinai itself was moved at the presence 
of God, the God of Israel. 

9 Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby 
thou didst confirm thine inheritance : when it was weary. 

10 Thy congregation hath dwelt therein : thou, O God, 
hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor. 

11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of 
those that published it. 

12 Kings of armies did flee apace : and she that tarried 
at home divided the spoil. 

13 Though ye have lain among the pots, yet shall ye be 
as the wings of a dove covered with silver : and her feathers 
with yellow gold. 

14 When the Almighty scattered kings in it : it was 
white as snow in Salmon. 

15 The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan : a high hill 
as the hill of Bashan. 

16 Why leap ye, ye high hills ? this is the hill which 
God desireth to dwell in : yea, the Lord will dwell in it for 
ever. 

17 The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thou- 
sands of angels : the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in 
the holy place, 

18 Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity 
captive : thou hast received gifts for men ; yea, for the 
rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among 
them. 

19 Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with bene- 
fits : even the God of our salvation. 



202 THE PSALTER. 



20 Thy God hath commanded thy strength : strengthen, 
God, that which thou hast wrought for us. 

21 Because of thy temple at Jerusalem : shall kings 
bring presents unto thee. 

22 Princes shall come out of Egypt : Ethiopia shall soon 
stretch out her hands unto God. 

23 Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth: O sing 
praises unto the Lord ; 

24 To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, 
which were of old: lo, he doth send out his voice, and that 
a mighty voice. 

25 Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over 
Israel, and his strength is in the clouds. 

26 O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places : the 
God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his 
people. Blessed be God. 

SELECTION 24. 

Psalm 70. 

1 MAKE haste, O God, to deliver me: make haste to 
help me, O Lord. 

2 Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after 
my soul : let them be turned backward, and put to confu- 
sion, that desire my hurt. 

3 Let them be turned back for a reward of their shame : 
that say, Aha, aha. 

4 Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee : 
and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God 
be magnified. 

5 But I am poor and needy; make haste unto me, O God : 
thou art my help and my deliverer ; Lord, make no 
tarrying. 

Psalm 71: 1-5, 8-9, 12, 14-24. 

6 IN thee, O Lord, do I put my trust : let me never be 
put to confusion. 

7 Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to 
escape : incline thine ear unto me, and save me. 

8 Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may con- 
tinually resort : thou hast given commandment to save me ; 
for thou art my rock and my fortress. 



SELECTION 25. 203 



9 Deliver me, my God, out of the hand of the wicked : 
out of tbe hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. 

10 For thou art my hope, O Lord God : thou art my 
trust from my youth. 

11 Let my mouth be filled with thy praise : and with 
thy honour all the day. 

12 Cast me not off in the time of old age : forsake me not 
when my strength faileth. 

13 O God, be not far from me : O my God, make haste 
for my help. 

14 But I will hope continually : and will yet praise thee 
more and more. 

15 My mouth shall show forth thy righteousness and thy 
salvation all the day : for I know not the numbers thereof. 

16 I will go in the strength of the Lord God : I will make 
mention of tby righteousness, even of thine only. 

17 O God, thou hast taught me from my youth : and 
hitherto have I declared thy wondrous works. 

18 Now also when I am old and gray-headed, O God, 
forsake me not : until I have showed thy strength unto this 
generation, and thy power to every one that is to come. 

19 Thy righteousness also, O God, is very high, who 
hast done great things : O God, who is like unto thee ! 

20 Thou, which hast showed me great and sore troubles, 
shalt quicken me again : and shalt bring me up again from 
the depths of the earth. 

21 Thou shalt increase my greatness : and comfort me on 
every side. 

22 I will also praise -thee with the psaltery, even thy 
truth, O my God : unto thee will I sing with the harp, O 
thou Holy One of Israel. 

23 My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee : 
and my soul, which thou hast redeemed. 

24 My tongue also shall talk of thy righteousness all the 
day long : for they are confounded, for they are brought 
unto shame, that seek my hurt. 

SELECTION 25. 

Psalm 72. 

1 GIVE the king thy judgments, O God : and thy right- 
eousness unto the king's son. 



204 THE PSALTER. 



2 He shall judge thy people with righteousness: and 
thy poor with judgment. 

3 The mountains shall bring peace to the people : and 
the little hills, by righteousness. 

4 He shall judge the poor of the people : he shall save 
the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the 
oppressor. 

5 They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon en- 
dure : throughout all generations. 

6 He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass : 
as showers that water the earth. 

7 In his days shall the righteous flourish : and abundance 
of peace so long as the moon endureth. 

8 He shall have dominion also from sea to sea : and from 
the river unto the ends of the earth. 

9 They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before 
him : and his enemies shall lick the dust. 

10 The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring 
presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts. 

11 Yea, ali kings shall fall down before him : all nations 
shall serve him. 

12 For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth: the 
poor also, and him that hath no helper. 

13 He shall spare the poor and needy : and shall save the 
souls of the needy. 

14 He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence : 
and precious shall their blood be in his sight. 

15 And he shall live, and to him shall be given of the 
gold of Sheba : prayer also shall be made for him continu- 
ally ; and daily shall he be praised. 

16 There shall be a handful of corn in the earth upon 
the top of the mountains ; the fruit thereof shall shake like 
Lebanon : and they of the city shall flourish like grass of 
the earth. 

17 His name shall endure for ever ; his name shall be 
continued as long as the sun : and men shall be blessed in 
him ; all nations shall call him blessed. 

18 Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel : who only 
doeth wondrous things. 

19 And blessed be his glorious name for ever : and let 
the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen, and Amen. 



SELECTION 26. 



205 



SELECTION 26. 

Psalm 73: 1-26. 

1 TRULY God is good to Israel : even to such as are of 
a clean heart. 

2 But as for me, my feet were almost gone: my steps 
had well nigh slipped. 

3 For I was envious at the foolish : when I saw the pros- 
perity of the wicked. 

4 For there are no bands in their death: but their 
strength is firm. 

5 They are not in trouble as other men : neither are they 
plagued like other men. 

6 Therefore pride compasseth' them about as a chain : 
violence covereth them as a garment. 

7 Their eyes stand out with fatness : they have more 
than heart could wish. 

8 They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning op- 
pression : they speak loftily. 

9 They set their mouth against the heavens : and their 
tongue walketh through the earth. 

10 Therefore his people return hither : and waters of a 
full cup are wrung out to them. 

11 And they say, How doth God know : and is there 
knowledge in the Most High ? 

12 Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the 
world : they increase in riches. 

13 Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain : and washed 
my hands in innocency. 

14 For all the day long have I been plagued: and 
chastened every morning. 

15 If I say, I will speak thus : behold, I should offend 
against the generation of thy children. 

16 When I thought to know this: it was too painful for me ; 

17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God : then under- 
stood I their end. 

18 Surely thou didst set them in slippery places : thou 
castedst them down into destruction. 

19 How are they brought into desolation, as in a mo- 
ment : they are utterly consumed with terrors. 

20 As a dream when one awaketh: so, O Lord, when 
thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image. 



206 



THE PSALTER. 



21 Thus my heart was grieved : and I was pricked in 
my reins. 

22 So foolish was I, and ignorant : I was as a beast be- 
fore thee. 

23 Nevertheless I am continually with thee : thou hast 
holden me by my right hand. 

24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel: and after- 
ward receive me to glory. 

25 Whom have I in heaven but thee: and there is none 
upon earth that I desire besides thee. 

26 My flesh and my heart faileth : but God is the 
strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 

SELECTION 27. 

Psalm 77. 

1 I CRIED unto God with my voice, even unto God 
with my voice : and he gave ear unto me. 

2 In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore 
ran in the night, and ceased not ; my soul refused to be 
comforted. 

3 I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, 
and my spirit was overwhelmed. 

4 Thou boldest mine eyes waking ■ I am so troubled that 
I cannot speak. 

5 I have considered the days of old : the years of ancient 
times. 

6 I call to remembrance my song in the night : I com- 
mune with mine own heart; and my spirit made diligent 

search. 

7 Will the Lord cast off for ever : and will he be favour- 
able no more ? 

8 Is his mercy clean gone for ever: doth his promise fail 
for evermore ? 

9 Hath God forgotten to be gracious : hath he in anger 
shut up his tender mercies ? 

10 And I said, This is my infirmity : but I will remem- 
ber the years of the right hand of the Most High. 

11 I will remember the works of the Lord : surely I will 
remember thy wonders of old. 

12 I will meditate also of all thy work : and talk of thy 
doings. 



SELECTION 28. 207 



13 Thy way, God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great 
a God as our God? 

14 Thou art the God that doest wonders : thou hast de- 
clared thy strength among the people. 

15 Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people : the 
sons of Jacob and Joseph. 

16 The waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; 
they were afraid: the depths also were troubled. 

17 The clouds poured out water; the skies sent out a 
sound : thine arrows also went abroad. 

18 The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the 
lightnings lightened the world ; the earth trembled and 
shook. 

19 Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great 
waters: and thy footsteps are not known. 

20 Thou leddest thy people like a flock : by the hand of 
Moses and Aaron. 

SELECTION 28. 

Psalm 80. 

1 GIVE ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest 
Joseph like a flock : thou that dwellest between the cheru- 
bim, shine forth. 

2 Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh: stir up 
thy strength, and come and save us. 

3 Turn us again, O God : and cause thy face to shine : 
and we shall be saved. 

4 O Lord God of hosts: how long wilt thou be angry 
against the prayer of thy people ? 

5 Thou f eedest them with the bread of tears : and givest 
them tears to drink in great measure. 

6 Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and 
our enemies laugh among themselves. 

7 Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to 
shine : and we shall be saved. 

8 Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt : thou hast 
cast out the heathen, and planted it. 

9 Thou preparedst room before it: and didst cause it 
to take deep root, and it filled the land. 

10 The hills were covered with the shadow of it: and 
the boughs thereof were like the goodly cedars. 



208 



THE PSALTER. 



11 She sent out her boughs unto the sea: and her 
branches unto the river. 

12 Why hast thou then broken down her hedges: so 
that all they which pass by the way do pluck her ? 

13 The boar out of the wood doth waste it : and the wild 
beast of the field doth devour it. 

14 Return, we beseech thee, O God of hosts : look down 
from heaven, and behold, and visit this vine ; 

15 And the vineyard which thy right hand hath planted : 
and the branch that thou madest strong for thyself. 

16 It is burned with fire, it is cut down : they perish at 
the rebuke of thy countenance. 

17 Let thy hand be upon the man of thy right hand : 
upon the son of man whom thou madest strong for thyself. 

18 So will not we go back from thee: quicken us, and 
we will call upon thy name. 

19 Turn us again/ O Lord God of hosts : cause thy face 
to shine ; and we shall be saved. 

SELECTION 29. 

Psalm 84. 

1 HOW amiable are thy tabernacles : Lord of hosts ! 

2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of 
the Lord : my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living- 
God. 

3 Yea, the sparrow hath found a house, and the swallow 
a nest for herself, where she may lay her young : even 
thine altars, O Lord of hosts, my King, and my God. 

4 Blessed are they that dwell in thy house : they will 
be still praising thee. 

5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee : in whose 
heart are the ways of them. 

6 Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a \ 
well : the rain also filleth the pools. 

7 They go from strength to strength : every one of them 
in Zion appeareth before God. 

8 O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, 
God of Jacob. 

9 Behold, God our shield : and look upon the face of 
thine anointed. 

10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand : I 



SELECTION 30. 209 



had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than 
to dwell in the tents of wickedness. 

11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will 
give grace and glory ; no good thing will he withhold from 
them that walk uprightly. 

12 Lord of hosts: blessed is the man that trusteth in 
thee. 

PSAL3I 85. 

13 LORD, thou hast been favourable unto thy land : 
thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob. 

14 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people : thou 
hast covered ail their sin. 

15 Thou hast taken away all thy wrath: thou hast 
turned thyself from the fierceness of thine anger. 

16 Turn us, O God of our salvation: and cause thine 
anger toward us to cease. 

17 Wilt thou be angry with us for ever: wilt thou draw 
out thine anger to all generations ? 

18 Wilt thou not revive us again : that thy people may 
rejoice in thee ? 

19 Show us thy mercy, O Lord : and grant us thy salva- 
tion. 

20 I will hear what God the Lord will speak : for he 
will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints, but let 
them not turn again to folly. 

21 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him: that 
glory may dwell in our land. 

22 Mercy and truth are met together : righteousness and 
peace have kissed each other. 

23 Truth shall spring out of the earth : and righteous- 
ness shall look down from heaven. 

24 Yea, the Lord shall give that which is good : and our 
land shall yield her increase. 

25 Righteousness shall go before him: and shall set us 
in the way of his steps. 

SELECTION 30. 

Psalm 86. 

1 BOW down thine ear, O Lord, hear me: for I am 
poor and needy. 



210 



THE PSALTER. 



2 Preserve my soul ; for I am holy ; O thou my God, 
save thy servant that trusteth in thee. 

3 Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee 
daily. 

4 Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, 
do I lift up my soul. 

5 For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive: and 
plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. 

6 Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer : and attend to the 
voice of my supplications. 

7 In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee : for 
thou wilt answer me. 

8 Among the gods there is none like unto thee, Lord : 
neither are there any works like unto thy works. 

9 All nations whom thou hast made shall come and 
worship before thee, O Lord: and shall glorify thy name. 

10 For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou 
art God alone. 

11 Teach me thy ways, O Lord ; I will walk in thy truth : 
unite my heart to fear thy name. 

12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my 
heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. 

13 For great is thy mercy toward me : and thou hast de- 
livered my soul from the lowest hell. 

14 God, the proud are risen against me: and the as- 
semblies of violent men have sought after my soul ; and 
have not set thee before them. 

15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion: and 
gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. 

16 O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me: give thy 
strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine hand- 
maid. 

17 Show me a token for good ; that they which hate me 
may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, Lord, hast 
holpen me, and comforted me. 

Psalm 87. 

18 HIS foundation: is in the holy mountains. 

19 The Lord loveth the gates of Zion: more than all the 
dwellings of Jacob. 

20 Glorious things are spoken of thee : O city of God. 

21 I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to them 



SELECTION 31. 211 



that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre, with Ethiopia; 
this man was born there. 

22 And of Zion it shall be said, This and that man was 
born in her : and the Highest himself shall establish her. 

23 The Lord shall count, when he writeth up the people : 
that this man was born there. 

24 As well the singers as the players on instruments shall 
be there : all my springs are in thee. 

SELECTION 31. 

Psalm 89: 1-37. 

1 I WILL sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: 
with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all 
generations. 

2 For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever : thy 
faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens. 

3 I have made a covenant with my chosen : I have sworn 
unto David my servant, 

4 Thy seed will I establish for ever: and build up thy 
throne to all generations. 

5 And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O Lord: 
thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints. 

6 For who in the heaven can be compared unto the 
Lord : who among the sons of the mighty can be likened 
unto the Lord ? 

7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the 
saints: and to be had in reverence of all them that are 
about him. - . 

8 O Lord God of hosts, who is a strong Lord like unto 
thee : or to thy faithfulness round about thee ? 

9 Thou rulest the raging of the sea : when the waves 
thereof arise, thou stillest them. 

10 Thou hast broken Eahab in pieces, as one that is 
slain: thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong 
arm. 

11 The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine : as for 
the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them. 

12 The north and the south thou hast created them: 
Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name. 

13 Thou hast a mighty arm: strong is thy hand, and 
high is thy right hand. 



212 THE PSALTER. 



14 Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy 
throne : mercy and truth shall go before thy face. 

15 Blessed "is the people that know the joyful sound: 
they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy counte- 
nance. 

16 In thy name shall they rejoice all the day : and in thy 
righteousness shall they be exalted. 

17 For thou art the glory of their strength : and in thy 
favour our horn shall be exalted. 

18 For the Lord is our defense: and the Holy One of 
Israel is our King. 

19 Then thou spakest in vision to thy Holy One, and 
saidst, I have laid help upon one that is mighty : I have 
exalted one chosen out of the people. 

20 I have found David my servant: with my holy oil 
have I anointed him : 

21 With w T hom my hand shall be established : mine arm 
also shall strengthen him. 

22 The enemy shall not exact upon him: nor the son 
of wickedness afflict him. 

23 And I will beat down his foes before his face: and 
plague them that hate him. 

24 But my faithfulness and my mercy shall be with 
him : and in my name shall his horn be exalted. 

25 I will set his hand also in the sea : and his right hand 
in the rivers. 

26 He shall cry unto me, Thou art my Father: my God, 
and the Rock of my salvation. 

27 Also I will make him my firstborn : higher than the 
kings of the earth. 

28 My mercy will I keep for him for evermore : and my 
covenant shall stand fast with him. 

29 His seed also will I make to endure forever: and his 
throne as the days of heaven. 

30 If his children forsake my law : and walk not in my 
judgments; 

31 If they break my statutes: and keep not my com- 
mandments ; 

32 Then will I visit their transgression with the rod: 
and their iniquity with stripes. 

33 Nevertheless my loving-kindness will I not utterly 
take from him : nor suif er my faithfulness to fail. 



SELECTION 32. 213 



34 My covenant will I not break: nor alter the thing 
that is gone out of my lips. 

35 Once have I sworn by my holiness : that I will not 
lie unto David. 

36 His seed shall endure for ever : and his throne as the 
sun before me. 

37 It shall be established for ever as the moon : and as a 
faithful witness in heaven. 

SELECTION 32. 

Psalm 90. 

1 LORD, thou hast been our dwelling-place: in all 
generations. 

2 Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou 
hadst formed the earth and the world: even from ever- 
lasting to everlasting, thou art God. 

3 Thou turnest man to destruction : and say est, Return, 
ye children of men. 

4 For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday 
when it is past : and as a watch in the night. 

5 Thou carriest them away as with a flood ; they are as 
a sleep : in the morning they are like grass which grow- 
eth up. 

6 In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up : in the 
evening it is cut down, and withereth. 

7 For we are consumed by thine anger: and by thy 
wrath are we troubled. 

8 Thou hast set our iniquities before thee: our secret 
sins in the light of thy countenance. 

9 For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we 
spend our years as a tale that is told. 

10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; 
and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years: yet 
is their strength labour and sorrow ; for it is soon cut off, 
and we fly away. 

11 Who knoweth the power of thine anger: even ac- 
cording to thy fear, so is thy wrath. 

12 So teach us to number our days : that we may apply 
our hearts unto wisdom. 

13 Return, Lord, how long : and let it repent thee con- 
cerning thy servants. 



214 THE PSALTER. 



14 satisfy us early with thy mercy : that we may re- 
joice and be glad all our days. 

15 Make us glad according to the days wherein thou 
hast afflicted us: and the years wherein we have seen 
evil. 

16 Let thy work appear unto thy servants : and thy glory 
unto their children. 

17 And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: 
and establish thou the work of our hands upon us ; yea, 
the work of our hands establish thou it. 

SELECTION 33. 

Psalm 91. 

1 HE that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most 
High : shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. 

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fort- 
ress : my God ; in him will I trust. 

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the 
fowler: and from the noisome pestilence. 

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his 
wings shalt thou trust : his truth shall be thy shield and 
buckler. 

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night : nor 
for the arrow that flieth by day ; 

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness : nor 
for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. 

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at 
thy right hand : but it shall not come nigh thee. 

* 8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold : and see the 
reward of the wicked. 

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge : 
even the Most High, thy habitation ; 

10 There shall no evil befall thee : neither shall any 
plague come nigh thy dwelling. 

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee : to 
keep thee in all thy ways. 

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands : lest thou dash 
thy foot against a stone. 

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder : the young 
lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. 

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will 



SELECTION 34. 215 



I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath 
known my name. 

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him : I will 
be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour 
him. 

16 With long life will I satisfy him: and show him my 
salvation. 

SELECTION 34. 

Psalm 92. 

1 IT is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord : and 
to sing praises unto thy name, O Most High : 

2 To show forth thy loving-kindness in the morning : 
and thy faithfulness every night, 

3 Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the 
psaltery : upon the harp with a solemn sound. 

4 For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work : 
I will triumph in the works of thy hands. 

5 O Lord, how great are thy works : and thy thoughts 
are very deep. 

6 A brutish man knoweth not : neither doth a fool un- 
derstand this. 

7 When the wicked spring as the grass, and when all 
the workers of iniquity do flourish: it is that they shall be 
destroyed for ever : 

8 But thou, Lord: art most high for evermore. 

9 For, lo, thine enemies, O Lord, for, lo, thine enemies 
shall perish: all the workers of iniquity shall be scattered. 

10 But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of a uni- 
corn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil. 

11 Mine eye also shall see my desire on mine enemies : 
and mine ears shall hear my desire of the wicked that rise 
up against me. 

12 The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree : he 
shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. 

13 Those that be planted in the house of the Lord : shall 
flourish in the courts of our God. 

14 They shall still bring forth fruit in old age : they shall 
be fat and flourishing ; 

15 To show that the Lord is upright : he is my rock, and 
there is no unrighteousness in him. 



216 



THE PSALTER. 



"l 



Psalm 93. 

16 THE Lord reigneth, he is clothed with majesty ; 
the Lord is clothed with strength, wherewith he hath 
girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot 
be moved. 

17 Thy throne is established of old: thou art from ever- 
lasting. 

18 The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have 
lifted up their voice: the floods lift up their waves. 

19 The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of many 
waters : yea, than the mighty waves of the sea. 

20 Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh 
thine house, O Lord, for ever. 

SELECTION 35. 

Psalm 95. 

1 O COME, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a 
joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. 

2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving : 
and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. 

3 For the Lord is a great God : and a great King above 
all gods. 

4 In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the 
strength of the hills is his also. 

5 The sea is his, and he made it : and his hands formed 
the dry land. 

6 O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel 
before the Lord our maker. 

7 For he is our God ; and we are the people of his pas- 
ture, and the sheep of his hand : To day if ye will hear his 

voice, 

8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation: and as 
in the day of temptation in the wilderness: 

9 When your fathers tempted me : proved me, and saw 
my work. 

10 Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, 
and said : It is a people that do err in their heart, and they 
have not known my ways: 

11 Unto whom I sware in my wrath: that they should 
not enter into my rest. 



SELECTION 36. 217 



Psalm 96. 

12 O SING unto the Lord a new song: sing unto the 
Lord, all the earth. 

13 Sing unto the Lord, bless his name : show forth his 
salvation from day to day. 

14 Declare his glory among the heathen: his wonders 
among all people. 

15 For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is 
to be feared above all gods. 

16 For all the gods of the nations are idols : but the Lord 
made the heavens. 

17 Honour and majesty are before him: strength and 
beauty are in his sanctuary. 

18 Give unto the Lord, Oye kindreds of the people: give 
unto the Lord glory and strength. 

19 Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name : bring 
an offering, and come into his courts. 

20 O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear 
before him, all the earth, 

21 Say among the heathen that the Lord reigneth: the 
world also shall be established that it shall not be moved ; 
he shall judge the people righteously. 

22 Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad: let 
the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. 

23 Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then 
shall all the trees of the wood rejoice 

24 Before the Lord; for he cometh, for he cometh to 
judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteous- 
ness, and the people with his truth. 



SELECTION 36. 

Psalm 97. 

1 THE Lord reigneth ; let the earth rejoice : let the mul- 
titude of isles be glad thereof. 

2 Clouds and darkness are round about him : righteous- 
ness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. 

3 A fire goeth before him: and burnetii up his enemies 
round about. 

4 His lightnings enlightened the world : the earth saw, 
and trembled. 



218 



THE PSALTER. 



5 The hills melted like wax at the presence of the Lord: 
at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. 

6 The heavens declare his righteousness: and all the 
people see his glory. 

7 Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that 
boast themselves of idols : worship him, all ye gods. 

8 Zion heard, and was glad : and the daughters of Judah 
rejoiced because of thy judgments, O Lord. 

9 For thou, Lord, art high above all the earth: thou art 
exalted far above all gods. 

10 Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: he preserveth the 
souls of his saints ; he delivereth them out of the hand of 
the wicked. 

11 Light is sown for the righteous: and gladness for the 
upright in heart. 

12 Kejoice in the Lord, ye righteous: and give thanks 
at the remembrance of his holiness. 

Psalm 98. 

13 SING unto the Lord a new song ; for he hath done 
marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath 
gotten him the victory. 

14 The Lord hath made known his salvation : his right- 
eousness hath he openly showed in the sight of the hea- 
then. 

15 He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward 
the house of Israel : all the ends of the earth have seen the 
salvation of our God. 

16 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: 
make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. 

17 Sing unto the Lord with the harp : with the harp, and 
the voice of a psalm. 

18 With trumpets and sound of cornet: make a joyful 
noise before the Lord, the King. 

19 Let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof: the world, 
and they that dwell therein. 

20 Let the floods clap their hands: let the hills be joyful 
together 

21 Before the Lord ; for he cometh to judge the earth: 
with righteousness shall he judge the world, and the people 
with equity. 



SELECTION 37. 219 



Psalm 99. 

22 THE Lord reigneth ; let the people tremble : he sit- 
teth between the cherubim ; let the earth be moved. 

23 The Lord is great in Zion : and he is high above all 
the people. 

24 Let them praise thy great and terrible name : for it 
is holy. 

25 The king's strength also loveth judgment : thou dost 
! establish equity, thou executest judgment and righteous- 
ness in Jacob. 

26 Exalt ye the Lord our God, and worship at his foot- 
stool : for he is holy. 

27 Moses and Aaron among his priests, and Samuel 
among them that call upon his name : they called upon 
the Lord, and he answered them. 

28 He spake unto them in the cloudy pillar : they kept 
his testimonies, and the ordinance that he gave them. 

29 Thou answeredst them, Lord our God : thou wast 
a God that forgavest them, though thou tookest vengeance 
of their inventions. 

30 Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy hill : 
for the Lord our God is holy. 

SELECTION 37. 

Psalm 100. 

1 MAKE a joyful noise unto the Lord: all ye lands. 

2 Serve the Lord with gladness : come before his pre- 
sence with singing. 

3 Know ye that the Lord he is God : it is he that hath 
made us, and not we ourselves ; we are his people, and the 
sheep of his pasture. 

4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his 
courts with praise : be thankful unto him, and bless his 
name. 

5 For the Lord is good ; his mercy is everlasting : and 
his truth endureth to all generations. 

Psalm 103. 

6 BLESS the Lord, O my soul : and all that is within 
me, bless his holy name. 



220 



THE PSALTER. 



7 Bless the Lord, my soul: and forget not all his 
benefits : 

8 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities: who healeth all 

thy diseases ; 

9 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction : who crown-: 
eth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies ; 

10 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things: so that 
thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. 

11 The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment: 
for all that are oppressed. 

12 He made known his ways unto Moses : his acts unto 
the children of Israel. 

13 The Lord is merciful and gracious: slow to anger, 
and plenteous in mercy. 

14 He will not always chide : neither will he keep his 
anger for ever. 

15 He hath not dealt with us after our sins: nor re- 
warded us according to our iniquities. 

16 For as the heaven is high above the earth : so great 
is his mercy toward them that fear him. 

17 As far as the east is from the west : so far hath he 
removed our transgressions from us. 

18 Like as a father pitieth his children : so the Lord piti- 
eth them that fear him. 

19 For he knoweth our frame : he remembereth that we 
are dust. 

20 As for man, his days are as grass : as a flower of the 
field, so he flourisheth. 

21 For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone : and the 
place thereof shall know it no more. 

22 But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to ever- 
lasting upon them that fear him : and his righteousness 
unto children's children ; 

23 To such as keep his covenant : and to those that 
remember his commandments to do them. 

24 The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens : and 
his kingdom ruleth over all. 

25 Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength : 
that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of 
his word. 

26 Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts : ye ministers of 
his, that do his pleasure. 



SELECTION 38. 221 



27 Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his 
dominion : bless the Lord, O my soul. 

SELECTION 38. 

Psalm 104. 

1 BLESS the Lord, O my soul: O Lord my God, thou 
art very great ; thou art clothed with honour and ma- 
jesty ; 

2 Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment : 
who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain ; 

3 Who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters : 
who maketh the clouds his chariot ; who walketh upon the 
wings of the wind ; 

4 Who maketh his angels spirits : his ministers a flam- 
ing fire ; 

5 Who laid the foundations of the earth : that it should 
not be removed for ever. 

6 Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment : 
the waters stood above the mountains. 

7 At thy rebuke they fled : at the voice of thy thunder 
they hasted away. 

8 They go up by the mountains: they go down by the 
valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them. 

9 Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over : 
that they turn not again to cover the earth. 

10 He sendeth the springs into the valleys: which run 
among the hills. 

11 They give drink to every beast of the field : the wild 
asses quench their thirst. 

12 By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their 
habitation : which sing among the branches. 

13 He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is 
satisfied with the fruit of thy works. 

14 He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb 
for the service of man : that he may bring forth food out of 
the earth ; 

15 And wine that maketh glad the heart of man : and oil 
to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth 
man's heart. 

16 The trees of the Lord are full of sap: the cedars of 
Lebanon, which he hath planted ; 



222 



THE PSALTER. 



17 Where the birds make their nests : as for the stork, the 
fir trees are her house. 

18 The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats: and 
the rocks for the conies. 

19 He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knowetk 
his going down. 

20 Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all 
the beasts of the forest do creep forth. 

21 The young lions roar after their prey : and seek their 
meat from God. 

22 The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together: 
and lay them down in their dens. 

23 Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour: 
until the evening. 

24 Lord, how manifold are thy works : in wisdom hast 
thou made them all ; the earth is full of thy riches. 

25 So is this great and wide sea: wherein are things 
creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts. 

26 There go the ships ; there is that leviathan: whom 
thou hast made to play therein. 

27 These wait all upon thee : that thou mayst give them 
their meat in due season. 

28 That thou givest them they gather: thou openest 
thine hand, they are filled with good. 

29 Thou hidest thy face, they are troubled : thou takest 
away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. 

30 Thou sendest forth thy spirit, they are created : and 
thou renewest the face of the earth. 

31 The glory of the Lord shall endure for ever: the Lord 
shall rejoice in his works. 

32 He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth : he touch- 
eth the hills, and they smoke. 

33 I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing 
praise to my God while I have my being. 

34 My meditation of him shall be sweet : I will be glad 
in the Lord. 

35 Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let 
the wicked be no more: Bless thou the Lord, O my soul. 
Praise ye the Lord. 



SELECTION 39. 223 



SELECTION 39. 

Psalm 107: 1-22. 

1 O GIVE thanks unto the Lord, for he is good : for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath 
redeemed : from the hand of the enemy ; 

3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, 
and from the west: from the north, and from the south. 

4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way : 
they found no city to dwell in. 

5 Hungry and thirsty : their soul fainted in them. 

6 Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble : and 
he delivered them out of their distresses. 

7 And he led them forth by the right way : that they 
might go to a city of habitation. 

8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness: 
and for his wonderful works to the children of men! 

9 For he satisfieth the longing soul: and filleth the 
hungry soul with goodness. 

10 Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death: 
being bound in affliction and iron ; 

11 Because they rebelled against the words of God: and 
contemned the counsel of the Most High: 

12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labour : 
they fell down, and there was none to help. 

13 Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble: and 
he saved them out of their distresses. 

14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of 
death : and brake their bands in sunder. 

15 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness: 
and for his wonderful works to the children of men S 

16 For he hath broken the gates of brass: and cut the 
bars of iron in sunder. 

17 Fools, because of their transgression: and because of 
their iniquities, are afflicted. 

18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat: and they 
draw near unto the gates of death. 

19 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble : and he 
saveth them out of their distresses. 

20 He sent his word, and healed them: and delivered 
them from their destructions. 



224 



THE PSALTER. 



21 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness: 
and for his wonderful works to the children of men ! 

22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving : 
and declare his works with rejoicing. 

SELECTION 40. 

Psalm 107: 23-40. 

1 THEY that go down to the sea in ships: that do busi 
ness in great waters ; 

2 These see the works of the Lord : and his wonders in 
the deep. 

3 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind: 
which lifteth up the waves thereof. 

4 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to 
the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble. 

5 They reel to and fro. and stagger like a drunken man : 
and are at their wit's end. 

6 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble : and he 
bringeth them out of their distresses. 

7 He maketh the storm a calm : so that the waves thereof 
are still. 

8 Then are they glad because they be quiet : so he bring- 
eth them unto their desired haven. 

9 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness: 
and for his wonderful works to the children of men ! 

10 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the 
people : and praise him in the assembly of the elders. 

11 He turneth rivers into a wilderness: and the water- 
springs into dry ground ; 

12 A fruitful land into barrenness : for the wickedness 
of them that dwell therein. 

13 He turneth the wilderness into a standing water: and 
dry ground into watersprings. 

14 And there he maketh the hungry to dwell : that they 
may prepare a city for habitation ; 

15 And sow the' fields, and plant vineyards: which may 
yield fruits of increase. 

16 He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied 
greatly : and suffereth not their cattle to decrease. 

17 Again, they are minished and brought low : through 
oppression, affliction, and sorrow. 



SELECTION 41. 225 



18 He poureth contempt upon princes: and causeth 
them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no 
way. 

19 Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction: and 
maketh him families like a flock. 

20 The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all ini- 
quity shall stop her mouth. 

21 Whoso is wise, and will observe these things: even 
they shall understand the loving-kindness of the Lord. 

SELECTION 41. 

Psalm 110. 

1 THE Lord said unto my Lord : Sit thou at my right 
hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. 

2 The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of 
Zion : rule thou in the midst of thine enemies. 

3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, 
in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning: 
thou hast the dew of thy youth. 

4 The Lord hath sworn, and will not repent : Thou art a 
priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek. 

5 The Lord at thy right hand : shall strike through kings 
in the day of his wrath. 

6 He shall judge among the heathen: he shall fill the 
places with the dead bodies ; he shall wound the heads over 
many countries. 

7 He shall drink of the brook in the way : therefore shall 
he lift up the head. 

Psalm 111. 

8 PRAISE ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with 
my whole heart : in the assembly of the upright, and in the 
congregation. 

9 The works of the Lord are great: sought out of all 
them that have pleasure therein. 

10 His work is honourable and glorious: and his right- 
eousness endureth forever. 

11 He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered : 
the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. 

12 He hath given meat unto them that fear him : he will 
ever be mindful of his covenant. 



226 



THE PSALTER. 



13 He hath showed his people the power of his works : 
that he may give them the heritage of the heathen. 

14 The works of his hands are verity and judgment : all 
his commandments are sure. 

15 They stand fast for ever and ever: and are done in 
truth and uprightness. 

16 He sent redemption unto his people: he hath com- 
manded his covenant for ever; holy and reverend is his 
name. 

17 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom : a 
good understanding have all they that do his command- 
ments ; his praise endureth for ever. 

Psalm 112. 

18 PRAISE ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth 
the Lord : that delighteth greatly in his commandments. 

19 His seed shall be mighty upon earth : the generation 
of the upright shall be blessed. 

20 Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his 
righteousness endureth for ever. 

21 Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness : 
he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. 

22 A good man showeth favour, and lendeth : he will 
guide his affairs with discretion. 

23 Surely he shall not be moved for ever : the righteous 
shall be in everlasting remembrance. 

24 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is 
fixed, trusting in the Lord. 

25 His heart is established, he shall not be afraid: until 
he see his desire upon his enemies. 

26 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor: his 
righteousness endureth for ever ; his horn shall be exalted 
with honour. 

27 The wicked shall see it, and be grieved : he shall 
gnash with his teeth, and melt away ; the desire of the 
wicked shall perish 

SELECTION 42. 

Psalm 113: 1-6. 

1 PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise, O ye servants of the 
Lord : praise the name of the Lord. 



SELECTION 42. 227 



2 Blessed be the name of the Lord : from this time forth 
and for evermore. 

3 From the rising of the sun unto the going down of 
the same : the Lord's name is to be praised. 

4 The Lord is high above all nations : and his glory 
above the heavens. 

5 Who is like unto the Lord our God : who dwelleth 
on high, 

6 Who humbleth himself to behold the things: that are 
in heaven, and in the earth ! 

Psalm 115. 

7 NOT unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name 
give glory : for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake. 

8 Wherefore should the heathen say : Where is now their 
God? 

9 But our God is in the heavens : he hath done whatso- 
ever he hath pleased. 

10 Their idols are silver and gold: the work of men's 
hands. 

11 They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have 
they, but they see not : 

12 They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, 
but they smell not : 

13 They have hands, but they handle not: feet have 
they, but they walk not ; neither speak they through their 
throat. 

14 They that make them are like unto them : so is every 
one that trusteth in them. 

15 O Israel, trust thou in the Lord : he is their help and 
their shield. 

16 O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord: he is their help 
and their shield. 

17 Ye that fear the Lord, trust in the Lord : he is their 
help and their shield. 

18 The Lord hath been mindful of us ; he will bless us : 
he will bless the house of Israel ; he will bless the house of 
Aaron. 

19 He will bless them that fear the Lord : both small and 
great. 

20 The Lord shall increase you more and more: you and 
your children. 



228 THE PSALTER. 



21 Ye are blessed of the Lord : which made heaven and 
earth. 

22 The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord's: but 
the earth hath he given to the children of men. 

23 The dead praise not the Lord : neither any that go 
down into silence. 

24 But we will bless the Lord : from this time forth and 
for evermore. Praise the Lord. 

SELECTION 43. 

Psalm 116. 

1 I LOYE the Lord : because he hath heard my voice 
and my supplications. 

2 Because he hath inclined his ear unto me: therefore 
will I call upon him as long as I live. 

3 The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of 
hell gat hold upon me : I found trouble and sorrow. 

4 Then called I upon the name of the Lord: O Lord, I 
beseech thee, deliver my soul. 

5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous : yea, our God is 
merciful. 

6 The Lord preserveth the simple : I was brought low, 
and he helped me. 

7 Return unto thy rest, my soul : for the Lord hath 
dealt bountifully with thee. 

8 For thou hast delivered my soul from death: mine 
eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. 

9 I will walk before the Lord : in the land of the living. 

10 I believed, therefore have I spoken: I was greatly 
afflicted : 

11 I said in my haste: All men are liars. 

12 What shall I render unto the Lord : for all his bene- 
fits toward me ? 

13 I will take the cup of salvation: and call upon the 
name of the Lord. 

14 I will pay my vows unto the Lord : now in the pre- 
sence of all his people. 

15 Precious in the sight of the Lord : is the death of his 
saints. 

16 O Lord, truly I am thy servant: I am thy servant, 
and the son of thine handmaid ; thou hast loosed my bonds. 



SELECTION 44. 229 



17 I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving: and 
will call upon the name of the Lord. 

18 I will pay my vows unto the Lord : now in the pre- 
sence of all his people, 

19 In the courts of the Lord's house, in the midst of thee, 

Jerusalem : Praise ye the Lord. 

Psalm 117. 

20 PRAISE the Lord, all ye nations: praise him, all 
ye people. 

21 For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the 
truth of the Lord endureth for ever. Praise ye the Lord. 

SELECTION 44. 

Psalm 118. 

1 GIVE thanks unto the Lord ; for he is good : be- 
cause his mercy endureth for ever. 

2 Let Israel now say : that his mercy endureth for ever. 

3 Let the house of Aaron now say : that his mercy en- 
dureth for ever. 

4 Let them now that fear the Lord say : that his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

5 I called upon the Lord in distress : the Lord answered 
me, and set me in a large place. 

6 The Lord is on my side, I will not fear : what can man 
do unto me ? 

7 The Lord taketh my part with them that help me : 
therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. 

8 It is better to trust in the Lord : than to put confidence 
in man. 

9 It is better to trust in the Lord : than to put confidence 
in princes. 

10 All nations compassed me about: but in the name of 
the Lord will I destroy them. 

11 They compassed me about ; yea, they compassed me 
about : but in the name of the Lord I will destroy them. 

12 They compassed me about like bees; they are 
quenched as the fire of thorns : for in the name of the Lord 

1 will destroy them. 

13 Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall : but 
the Lord helped me. 



230 THE PSALTER. 



14 The Lord is my strength and song : and is become my 
salvation. 

15 The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the taber- 
nacles of the righteous : the right hand of the Lord doeth 
valiantly. 

16 The right hand of the Lord is exalted : the right hand 
of the Lord doeth valiantly. 

17 I shall not die, but live: and declare the works of the 
Lord. 

18 The Lord hath chastened me sore: but he hath not 
given me over unto death. 

19 Open to me the gates of righteousness : I will go into 
them, and I will praise the Lord : 

20 This gate of the Lord : into which the righteous shall 
enter. 

21 I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art 
become my salvation. 

22 The stone which the builders refused : is become the 
head stone of the corner. 

23 This is the Lord's doing: it is marvellous in our 
eyes. 

24 This is the day which the Lord hath made : we will 
rejoice and be glad in it. 

25 Save now, I beseech thee, O Lord : O Lord, I beseech 
thee, send now prosperity. 

26 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the Lord : 
we have blessed you out of the house of the Lord. 

27 God is the Lord, which hath showed us light: bind 
the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. 

28 Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art 
my God, I will exalt thee. 

29 O give thanks unto the Lord ; for he is good : for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

SELECTION 45. 

Psalm 119: 1-24. 

1 BLESSED are the undeflled in the way : who walk in 
the law of the Lord. 

2 Blessed are they that keep his testimonies : and that 
seek him with the whole heart. 

3 They also do no iniquity : they walk in his ways. 



SELECTION 45. 231 



4 Thou hast commanded us: to keep thy precepts dili- 
gently. 

5 O that my ways were directed : to keep thy statutes ! 

6 Then shall I not be ashamed: when I have respect 
unto all thy commandments. 

7 I will praise thee with uprightness of heart : when I 
shall have learned thy righteous judgments. 

8 I will keep thy statutes : O forsake me not utterly. 

9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way : by 
taking heed thereto according to thy word. 

10 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me 
not wander from thy commandments. 

11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart: that I might not 
sin against thee. 

12 Blessed art thou, O Lord : teach me thy statutes. 

13 With my lips have I declared: all the judgments of 
thy mouth. 

14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies: as 
much as in all riches. 

15 I will meditate in thy precepts: and have respect unto 
thy ways. 

16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not for- 
get thy word. 

17 Deal bountifully with thy servant: that I may live, 
and keep thy word. 

18 Open thou mine eyes: that I may behold wondrous 
things out of thy law. 

19 I am a stranger in the earth : hide not thy command- 
ments from me. 

20 My soul breaketh for the longing : that it hath unto 
thy judgments at all times. 

21 Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed : which 
do err from thy commandments. 

21 Remove from me reproach and contempt : for I have 
kept thy testimonies. 

23 Princes also did sit and speak against me : but thy 
servant did meditate in thy statutes. 

24 Thy testimonies also are my delight : and my coun- 
sellors. 



232 THE PSALTER. 

SELECTION 46. 

Psalm 119 : 33-48, 89-96. 

1 TEACH me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes : and I 
shall keep it unto the end. 

2 Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law : yea, 
I shall observe it with my whole heart. 

3 Make me to go in the path of thy commandments : for 
therein do I delight. 

4 Incline my heart unto thy testimonies: and not to 
covetousness. 

5 Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity: and 
quicken thou me in thy way. 

6 Stablish thy word unto thy servant : who is devoted 
to thy fear. 

7 Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judg- 
ments are good. 

8 Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me 
in thy righteousness. 

9 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord : even thy 
salvation, according to thy word. 

10 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that re- 
proacheth me : for I trust in thy word. 

11 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my 
mouth: for I have hoped in thy judgments. 

12 So shall I keep thy law : continually for ever and ever. 

13 And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts. 

14 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings : and 
will not be ashamed. 

15 And I will delight myself in thy commandments: 
which I have loved. 

16 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, 
which I have loved: and I will meditate in thy statutes. 

17 For ever, O Lord: thy word is settled in heaven. 

18 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast 
established the earth, and it abideth. 

19 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: 
for all are thy servants. 

20 Unless thy law had been my delights : I should then 
have perished in mine affliction. 

21 I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou 
hast quickened me. 



SELECTION 47. 233 



22 I am thine, save me : for I have sought thy precepts. 

23 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me : but I 
will consider thy testimonies. 

24 I have seen an end of all perfection : but thy com- 
mandment is exceeding broad. 

SELECTION 47. 

Psalm 119: 97-120. 

1 OHOW love I thy law: it is my meditation all the 
day. 

2 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser 
than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. 

3 I have more understanding than all my teachers : for 
thy testimonies are my meditation. 

4 I understand more than the ancients : because I keep 
thy precepts. 

5 I have refrained my feet from every evil way : that I 
might keep thy word. 

6 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou 
hast taught me. 

7 How sweet are thy words unto my taste : yea, sweeter 
than honey to my mouth. 

8 Through thy precepts I get understanding : therefore 
I hate every false way 

9 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet : and a light unto my 
path. 

10 1 have sworn, and I will perform it: that I will keep 
thy righteous judgments. 

11 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, Lord, ac- 
cording unto thy word. 

12 Accept, I beseech thee, the free-will offerings of my 
mouth, O Lord: and teach me thy judgments. 

13 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not for- 
get thy law. 

14 The wicked have laid a snare for me : yet I erred not 
from thy precepts. 

15 Thy testimonies have I taken as a heritage for ever : 
for they are the rejoicing of my heart. 

16 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes 
always : even unto the end. 

17 I hate vain thoughts : but thy law do I love. 



234 



THE PSALTER. 



18 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in 
thy word. 

19 Depart from me, ye evil doers: for I will keep the 
commandments of my God. 

20 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may 
live : and let me not be ashamed of my hope. 

21 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe : and I will have 
respect unto thy statutes continually. 

22 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy 
statutes: for their deceit is falsehood. 

23 Thou put test away all the wicked of the earth like 
dross : therefore I love thy testimonies. 

24 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee : and I am afraid 
of thy judgments. 

SELECTION 48, 

Psalm 121. 

1 I WILL lift up mins eyes unto the hills : from whence 
cometh my help. 

2 My help cometh from the Lord : which made heaven 
and earth. 

3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved : he that keep- 
eth thee will not slumber. 

4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel: shall neither slumber 
nor sleep. 

5 The Lord is thy keeper : the Lord is thy shade upon 
thy right hand. 

6 The sun shall not smite thee by day : nor the moon 
by night. 

7 The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall 
preserve thy soul. 

8 The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming 
in: from this time forth, and even for evermore. 

Psalm 122. 

9 I WAS glad when they said unto me : Let us go into 
the house of the Lord. 

10 Our feet shall stand within thy gates: Jerusalem. 

11 Jerusalem is builded as a city: that is compact to- 
gether: 

12 Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord: unto 



SELECTION 49. 235 



the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of 
the Lord. 

13 For there are set thrones of judgment: the thrones 
of the house of David. 

14 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper 
that love thee. 

15 Peace be within thy walls : and prosperity within thy 
palaces. 

16 For my brethren and companions' sakes: I will now 
say, Peace be within thee. 

17 Because of the house of the Lord our God: I will 
seek thy good. 

Psalm 123. 

18 UNTO thee lift I up mine eyes: thou that dwell- 
est in the heavens. 

19 Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of 
their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand 
of her mistress: so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, 
until that he have mercy upon us. 

20 Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us: 
for we are exceedingly filled with contempt. 

21 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of 
those that are at ease: and with the contempt of the 
proud. 

SELECTION 49. 

Psalm 124. 

1 IF it had not been the Lord who was on our side: 
now may Israel say ; 

2 If it had not been the Lord who was on our side : when 
men rose up against us : 

3 Then they had swallowed us up quick : when their 
wrath was kindled against us. 

4 Then the waters had overwhelmed us : the stream had 
gone over our soul : 

5 Then the proud waters : had gone over our soul. 

6 Blessed be the Lord : who hath not given us as a prey 
to their teeth. 

7 Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the 
fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. 



236 



THE PSALTER. 



8 Our help is in the name of the Lord: who made heaven 
and earth. 

Psalm 125. 

9 THEY that trust in the Lord shall be as mount Zion : 
which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. 

10 As the mountains are round about Jerusalem: so the 
Lord is round about his people from henceforth even for 
ever. 

11 For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot 
of the righteous: lest the righteous put forth their hands 
unto iniquity. 

12 Do good, O Lord, unto those that be good: and to 
them that are upright in their hearts. 

13 As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, 
the Lord shall lead them forth with the workers of iniquity : 
but peace shall be upon Israel. 

Psalm 126. 

14 WHEX the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion : 
we were like them that dream. 

15 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our 
tongue with singing : then said they among the heathen, 
The Lord hath done great things for them. 

16 The Lord hath done great things for us : whereof we 
are glad. 

17 Turn again our captivity, O Lord : as the streams in 
the south. 

18 They that sow in tears: shall reap in joy. 

19 He that goeth forth and vveepeth, bearing precious 
seed: shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing 
his sheaves with him. 

Psalm 127. 

20 EXCEPT the Lord build the house, they labour in 
vain that build it : except the Lord keep the city, the watch- 
man waketh but in vain. 

21 It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to 
eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep. 

22 Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord : and the fruit 
of the womb is his reward. 

23 As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man: so are 
children of the youth. 



SELECTION 50. 237 



24 Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them : 
they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the 
enemies in the gate. 

SELECTION 50. 

Psalm 130. 

1 OUT of the depths have I cried : unto thee, Lord. 

2 Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to 
the voice of my supplications. 

3 If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities: OLord, who 
shall stand ? 

4 But there is forgiveness with thee : that thou mayest 
be feared. 

5 I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait : and in his 
word do I hope. 

6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that 
watch for the morning : I say, more than they that watch 
for the morning. 

7 Let Israel hope in the Lord : for with the Lord there 
is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. 

8 And he shall redeem Israel : from all his iniquities. 

Psalm 131. 

9 LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: 
neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things 
too high for me. 

10 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child 
that is weaned of his mother : my soul is even as a weaned 
child. 

11 Let Israel hope in the Lord: from henceforth and for 
ever. 

Psalm 132. 

12 LORD, remember David : and all his afflictions: 

13 How he sware unto the Lord : and vowed unto the 
mighty God of Jacob ; 

14 Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my 
house : nor go up into my bed ; 

15 1 will not give sleep to mine eyes : or slumber to mine 
eyelids, 



238 THE PSALTER. 



16 Until I find out a place for the Lord: a habitation for 
the mighty God of Jacob. 

17 Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah : we found it in the 
fields of the wood. 

18 We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at 
his footstool. 

19 Arise, Lord, into thy rest: thou, and the ark of thy 
strength. 

20 Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness : and let 
thy saints shout for joy. 

21 For thy servant David's sake : turn not away the face 
of thine anointed. 

22 The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will 
not turn from it : Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon 
thy throne. 

23. If thy children will keep my covenant and my testi- 
mony that I shall teach them : their children shall also sit 
upon thy throne for evermore. 

24 For the Lord hath chosen Zion : he hath desired it 
for his habitation. 

25 This is my rest for ever : here will I dwell ; for I 
have desired it. 

26 I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy 
her poor with bread. 

27 I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her 
saints shall shout aloud for joy. 

28 There will I make the horn of David to bud : I have 
ordained a lamp for mine anointed. 

29 His enemies will I clothe with shame : but upon him- 
self shall his crown flourish. 

SELECTION 51. 

Psalm 133. 

1 BEHOLD, how good and how pleasant it is : for breth- 
ren to dwell together in unity ! 

2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that 
ran down upon the beard: even Aaron's beard, that went 
down to the skirts of his garments ; 

3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended 
upon the mountains of Zion : for there the Lord commanded 
the blessing, even life for evermore. 



SELECTION 51. 



239 



Psalm 134. 

4 BEHOLD, bless ye the Lord, all ye servants of the 
Lord : which by night stand in the house of the Lord. 

5 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary : and bless the 
Lord. 

6 The Lord that made heaven and earth : bless thee out 
of Zion. 

Psalm 135. 

7 PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the 
Lord : praise him, O ye servants of the Lord. 

8 Ye that stand in the house of the Lord : in the courts 
of the house of our God, 

9 Praise the Lord ; for the Lord is good : sing praises 
unto his name ; for it is pleasant. 

10 For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto himself: and 
Israel for his peculiar treasure. 

11 For I know that the Lord is great: and that our 
Lord is above all gods. 

12 Whatsoever the Lord pleased, that did he in heaven, 
and in earth : in the seas, and all deep places. 

13 He causeth the vapors to ascend from the ends of the 
earth: he maketh lightnings for the rain; he bringeth the 
wind out of his treasuries. 

14 Who smote the firstborn of Egypt : both of man and 
beast. 

15 Who sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, 
O Egypt : upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants. 

16 Who smote great nations: and slew mighty kings; 

17 Sihon king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan: 
and all the kingdoms of Canaan: 

18 And gave their land for a heritage: a heritage unto 
Israel his people. 

19 Thy name, O Lord, endureth for ever: and thy memo- 
rial, O Lord, throughout all generations. 

20 For the Lord will judge his people: and he will re- 
pent himself concerning his servants. 

21 The idols of the heathen are silver and gold: the 
work of men's hands. 

22 They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have 
they, but they see not ; 

23 They have ears but they hear not : neither is there any 
breath in their mouths. 



240 THE PSALTER. 



24 They that make them are like unto them : so is every 
one that trusteth in them. 

25 Bless the Lord, O house of Israel : bless the Lord, 
house of Aaron : 

26 Bless the Lord, O house of Levi: ye that fear the 
Lord, bless the Lord. 

27 Blessed be the Lord out of Zion ; which dwelleth at 
Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord. 

SELECTION 52. 

Psalm 136: 1-9, 23-26. 

1 GIVE thanks unto the Lord ; for he is good : for 
his mercy endureth for ever. 

2 give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy en- 
dureth for ever. 

4 To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

5 To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

6 To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: 
for his mercy endureth for ever. 

7 To him that made great lights : for his mercy endureth 
for ever: 

8 The sun to rule by day : for his mercy endureth for 
ever: 

9 The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

10 Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

11 And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his 
mercy endureth for ever. 

12 Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth 
for ever. 

13 O give thanks unto the God of heaven : for his mercy 
endureth for ever. 

Psalm 137: 1-6. 

14 BY the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down: yea, we 
wept, when we remembered Zion. 



SELECTION 53. 241 



15 We hanged our harps upon the willows : in the midst 
thereof. 

16 For there they that carried us away captive required 
of us a song: and they that wasted us required of us mirth, 
saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. 

17 How shall we sing the Lord's song: in a strange 
land? 

18 If I forget thee, Jerusalem: let my right hand for- 
get her cunning. 

19 If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to 
the roof of my mouth : if I prefer not Jerusalem above my 
chief joy. 

Psalm 138. 

20 I WILL praise thee with my whole heart : before the 
gods will I sing praise unto thee. 

21 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise 
thy name for thy loving-kindness and for thy truth: for 
thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. 

22 In the day when I cried thou answeredst me: and 
strengthenedst me with strength in my soul. 

23 All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O Lord : 
when they hear the words of thy mouth. 

24 Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord : for great 
is the glory of the Lord. 

25 Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto 
the lowly : but the proud he knoweth afar off. 

26 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt re- 
vive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the 
wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me. 

27 The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me : thy 
mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever ; forsake not the works 
of thine own hands. 

SELECTION 53. 

Psalm 139: 1-12, 14-24. 

1 LORD : thou hast searched me, and known me. 

2 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising: 
thou understandest my thought afar off. 

3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down : and art 
acquainted with all my ways. 



242 THE PSALTER. 



4 For there is not a word in my tongue: but, lo, O Lord, 
thou knowest it altogether. 

5 Thou hast beset me behind and before : and laid thine 
hand upon me. 

6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me : it is high, 
I cannot attain unto it. 

7 Whither shall I go from thy Spirit : or whither shall I 
flee from thy presence ? 

8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there : if I make 
my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. 

9 If I take the wings of the morning : and dwell in the 
uttermost parts of the sea ; 

10 Even there shall thy hand lead me : and thy right 
hand shall hold me. 

11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me : even 
the night shall be light about me. 

12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee ; but the 
night shineth as the day : the darkness and the light are 
both alike to thee. 

13 I will praise thee ; for I am fearfully and wonderfully 
made : marvellous are thy works ; and that my soul knoweth 
right well. 

14 My substance was not hid from thee, when I was 
made in secret: and curiously wrought in the lowest parts 
of the earth. 

15 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unper- 
fect: and in thy book all my members were written, which 
in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none 
of them. 

16 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God: 
how great is the sum of them ! 

17 If I should count them, they are more in number than 
the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee. 

18 Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from 
me therefore, ye bloody men. 

19 For they speak against thee wickedly: and thine ene- 
mies take th} T name in vain. 

20 Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee : and am 
not I grieved with those that rise up against thee ? 

21 I hate them with perfect hatred : I count them mine 
enemies. 



SELECTION 54. 243 



22 Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and 
know my thoughts : 

23 And see if there be any wicked way in me: and lead 
me in the way everlasting. 

SELECTION 54. 

Psalm 141 : 1-3. 

1 LORD, I cry unto thee : make haste unto me ; give 
unto my voice, when I cry unto thee. 

2 Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense: and 
the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. 

3 Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth: keep the door 
of my lips. 

Psalm 142. 

4 I CRIED unto the Lord with my voice : with my voice 
unto the Lord did I make my supplication. 

5 I poured out my complaint before him: I showed be- 
fore him my trouble. 

6 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then 
thou knewest my path : In the way wherein I walked have 
they privily laid a snare for me. 

7 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was 
no man that would know me: refuge failed me ; no man 
cared for my soul. 

8 I cried unto thee, O Lord : I said, Thou art my refuge 
and my portion in the land of the living. 

9 Attend unto my cry ; for I am brought very low : de- 
liver me from my persecutors ; for they are stronger than I. 

10 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy 
name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou 
shalt deal bountifully with me. 

Psalm 143: 1-11. 

11 HEAR my prayer, Lord, give ear to my supplica- 
tions: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteous- 
ness. 

12 And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in 
thy sight shall no man living be justified. 

13 For the enemy hath persecuted my soul : he hath 
smitten my life down to the ground : he hath made me to 
dwell in darkness, as those that have been long dead. 



244 



THE PSALTER. 



14 Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me : my 
heart within me is desolate. 

15 I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy 
works : I muse on the work of thy hands. 

16 I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirst- 
eth after thee, as a thirsty land. 

17 Hear me speedily, *0 Lord ; my spirit faileth : hide 
not thy face from me, lest I be like unto them that go 
down into the pit. 

18 Cause me to hear thy loving-kindness in the morning ; 
for in thee do I trust : cause me to know the way wherein 
I should walk ; for I lift up my soul unto thee. 

19 Deliver me, O Lord, from mine enemies : I flee unto 
thee to hide me. 

20 Teach me to do thy will ; for thou art my God : thy 
Spirit is good ; lead me into the land of uprightness.. 

21 Quicken me, O Lord, for thy name's sake: for thy 
righteousness 5 sake bring my soul out of trouble. 

SELECTION 55. 

Psalm 144. 

1 BLESSED be the Lord my strength : which teacheth 
my hands to war, and my fingers to fight ; 

2 My goodness, and my fortress ; my high tower, and 
my deliverer: my shield, and he in whom I trust; who 
subdueth my people under me. 

3 Lord, what is man, that thou takest knowledge of 
him: or the son of man, that thou makest account of him ! 

4 Man is like to vanity : his days are as a shadow that 
passeth away. 

5 Bow thy heavens, Lord, and come down: touch the 
mountains, and they shall smoke. 

6 Cast forth lightning, and scatter them: shoot out 
thine arrows, and destroy them. 

7 Send thine hand from above: rid me, and deliver me 
out of great waters, from the hand of strange children ; 

8 Whose mouth speaketh vanity: and their right hand 
is a right hand of falsehood. 

9 I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a 
psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing 
praises unto thee. 



SELECTION 55. 245 



10 It is he that giveth salvation unto kings: who de- 
livereth David his servant from the hurtful sword. 

11 Rid me, and deliver me from the hand of strange 
children: whose mouth speaketh vanity, and their right 
hand is a right hand of falsehood: 

12 That our sons may be as plants grown up in their 
youth: that our daughters may be as corner stones, pol- 
ished after the similitude of a palace: 

13 That our garners may be full, affording all manner of 
store : that our sheep may bring forth thousands and ten 
thousands in our streets: 

14 That our oxen may be strong to labour ; that there 
be no breaking in, nor going out : that there be no com- 
plaining in our streets. 

15 Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, 
happy is that people, whose God is the Lord. 

Psalm 146. 

16 PRAISE ye the Lord : Praise the Lord, O my soul. 

17 While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises 
unto my God while I have any being. 

18 Put not your trust in princes: nor in the son of man, 
in whom there is no help. 

19 His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth: in 
that very day his thoughts perish. 

20 Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help : 
whose hope is in the Lord his God : 

21 Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that 
therein is: which keepeth truth for ever; 

22 Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which 
giveth food to the hungry. The Lord looseth the pris- 
oners; 

23 The Lord openeth the eyes of the blind; the Lord 
raiseth them that are bowed down: the Lord loveth the 
righteous ; 

24 The Lord preserveth the strangers ; he relieveth the 
fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he 
turneth upside down. 

25 The Lord shall reign for ever: even thy God, Zion, 
unto all generations. Praise ye the Lord. 



246 THE PSALTER. 



SELECTION 56. 

Psalm 145. 

1 I WILL extol thee, my God, O King : and I will bless 
thy name for ever and ever. 

2 Every day will I bless thee: and I will praise thy 
name for ever and ever. 

3 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: and his 
greatness is unsearchable. 

4 One generation shall praise thy works to another : and 
shall declare thy mighty acts. 

5 I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty: 
and of thy wondrous works. 

6 And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts : 
and I will declare thy greatness. 

7 They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great 
goodness: and shall sing of thy righteousness. 

8 The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion: slow 
to anger, and of great mercy. 

9 The Lord is good to all : and his tender mercies are 
over all his works. 

10 All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord: and thy 
saints shall bless thee. 

11 They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom : and 
talk of thy power; 

12 To make known to the sons of men his mighty acts: 
and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. 

13 Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom: and thy 
dominion endureth throughout all generations. 

14 The Lord upholdeth all that fall : and raiseth up all 
those that be bowed down. 

15 The eyes of all wait upon thee : and thou givest them 
their meat in due season. 

16 Thou openest thine hand: and satisflest the desire of 
every living thing. 

17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways: and holy in all 
his works. 

18 The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him: 
to all that call upon him in truth. 

19 He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also 
will hear their cry, and will save them. 



SELECTION 57. 



247 



20 The Lord preserveth all them that love him : but all 
the wicked will he destroy. 

21 My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord : and let 
all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever. 

SELECTION 57. 

Psalm 147. 

1 PRAISE ye the Lord ; for it is good to sing praises 
unto our God : for it is pleasant ; and praise is comely. 

2 The Lord doth build up Jerusalem: he gathereth to- 
gether the outcasts of Israel. 

3 He healeth the broken in heart : and bindeth up their 
wounds. 

4 He telle th the number of the stars : he calleth them 
all by their names. 

5 Great is our Lord, and of great power: his under- 
standing is infinite. 

6 The Lord lif teth up the meek : he casteth the wicked 
down to the ground. 

7 Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving: sing praise 
upon the harp unto our God : 

8 Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth 
rain for the earth: who maketh grass to grow upon the 
mountains. 

9 He giveth to the beast his food: and to the young 
ravens which cry. 

10 He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he 
taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. 

11 The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him: in 
those that hope in his mercy. 

12 Praise the Lord, Jerusalem : praise thy God, O Zion. 

13 For he hath strengthened the bars of thy gates: he 
hath blessed thy children within thee. 

14 He maketh peace in thy borders: and filleth thee with 
the finest of the wheat. 

15 He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his 
word runneth very swiftly. 

16 He giveth snow like wool: he scattereth the hoar 
frost like ashes. 

17 He casteth forth his ice like morsels: who can stand 
before his cold ? 



248 THE PSALTER. 



18 He sendeth out his word, and melteth them: he 
causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow. 

19 He showeth his word unto Jacob: his statutes and 
his judgments unto Israel. 

20 He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his 
judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the 
Lord. 

SELECTION 58. 

Psalm 148. 

1 PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord from the 
heavens : praise him in the heights. 

2 Praise ye him, all his angels : praise ye him, all his 
hosts. 

3 Praise ye him, sun and moon : praise him, all ye stars 
of light. 

4 Praise him, ye heavens of heavens: and ye waters 
that be above the heavens. 

5 Let them praise the name of the Lord : for he com- 
manded, and they were created. 

6 He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: he 
hath made a decree which shall not pass. 

7 Praise the Lord from the earth : ye dragons, and all 
deeps: 

8 Fire, and hail; snow, and vapour: stormy wind ful- 
filling his word : 

9 Mountains, and all hills: fruitful trees, and all cedars: 

10 Beasts, and all cattle: creeping things, and flying 
fowl: 

11 Kings of the earth, and all people: princes, and all 
judges of the earth: 

12 Both young men, and maidens: old men, and children: 

13 Let them praise the name of the Lord ; for his name 
alone is excellent: his glory is above the earth and heaven. 

14 He also exalteth the horn of his people, the praise of 
all his saints: even of the children of Israel, a people near 
unto him. Praise ye the Lord. 

Psalm 149. 

15 PRAISE ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new 
song : and his praise in the congregation of saints. 



SELECTION 59. 249 



16 Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the chil- 
dren of Zion be joyful in their King. 

17 Let them praise his name in the dance : let them sing 
praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. 

18 For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: he will 
beautify the meek with salvation. 

19 Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud 
upon their beds. 

20 Let the high praises of God be in their mouth: and a 
two-edged sword in their hand ; 

21 To execute vengeance upon the heathen: and punish- 
ments upon the people ; 

22 To bind their kings with chains : and their nobles 
with fetters of iron ; 

23 To execute upon them the judgment written: this 
honour have all his saints. Praise ye the Lord. 

Psalm 150. 

24 PRAISE ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary : 
praise him in the firmament of his power. 

25 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according 
to his excellent greatness. 

26 Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him 
with the psaltery and harp. 

27 Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him 
with stringed instruments and organs. 

28 Praise him upon the loud cymbals : praise him upon 
the high sounding cymbals. 

29 Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord: 
Praise ye the Lord. 



SELECTION 59. 

(For Good Friday.) 

Psalm 22: 1-8; 11-31. 

1 MY God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me : why 
art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of 
my roaring ? 

2 my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearestnot: 
and in the night season, and am not silent. 



250 THE PSALTER. 



3 But thou art holy : thou that inhabitest the praises 
of Israel. 

4 Our fathers trusted in thee: they trusted, and thou 
didst deliver them. 

5 They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted 
in thee, and were not confounded. 

6 But I am a worm, and no man : a reproach of men, and 
despised of the people. 

7 All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out 
the lip, they shake the head, saying, 

8 He trusted on the Lord that he would deliver him: let 
him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. 

9 Be not far from me ; for trouble is near : for there is 
none to help. 

10 Many bulls have compassed me: strong bulls of Ba- 
shan have beset me round. 

11 They gaped upon me with their mouths: as a raven- 
ing and a roaring lion. 

12 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out 
of joint: my heart is like wax ; it is melted in the midst of 
my bowels, 

13 My strength is dried up like a potsherd ; and my 
tongue cleaveth to my jaws: and thou hast brought me 
into the dust of death. 

14 For dogs have compassed me ; the assembly of the 
wicked have inclosed me : they pierced my hands and my 
feet. 

15 I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. 

16 They part my garments among them : and cast lots 
upon my vesture. 

17 But be not thou far from me, O Lord : O my strength, 
haste thee to help me. 

18 Deliver my soul from the sword: my darling from the 
power of the dog. 

19 Save me from the lion's mouth: for thou hast heard 
me from the horns of the unicorns. 

20 I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the 
midst of the congregation will I praise thee. 

21 Ye that fear the Lord, praise him: all ye the seed 
of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the seed of 
Israel. 

22 For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of 



SELECTION 60. 



251 



the afflicted : neither hath he hid his face from him ; but 
when he cried unto him, he heard. 

23 My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation: 
I will pay my vows before them that fear him. 

24 The meek shall eat and be satisfied ; they shall praise 
the Lord that seek him : your heart shall live for ever. 

25 All the ends of the world shall remember and turn 
unto the Lord: and all the kindreds of the nations shall 
worship before thee. 

26 For the kingdom is the Lord's: and he is the governor 
among the nations. 

27 All they that be fat upon earth shall eat and worship ; 
all they that go down to the dust shall bow before him : 
and none can keep alive his own soul. 

28 A seed shall serve him : it shall be accounted to the 
Lord for a generation. 

29 They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness : 
unto a people that shall be born, that he hath done this. 



SELECTION 60. 

{For Good Friday.) 

Psalm 69 : 1-21 ; 29-36. 

1 SAVE me, O God : for the waters are come in unto my 
soul. 

2 I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing : I am 
come into deep waters, where the floods overflow me. 

3 I am weary of my crying; my throat is dried: mine 
eyes fail while I wait for my God. 

4 They that hate me without a cause are more than the 
hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me, being 
mine enemies wrongfully, are mighty ; then I restored that 
which I took not away. 

5 O God, thou knowest my foolishness : and my sins are 
not hid from thee. 

6 Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord God of hosts, 
be ashamed for my sake : let not those that seek thee be 
confounded for my sake, God of Israel. 

7 Because for thy sake I have borne reproach : shame 
hath covered my face. 



252 



THE PSALTER. 



8 I am become a stranger unto my brethren: and an 
alien unto my mother's children. 

9 For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up : and the 
reproaches of them that reproached thee are fallen upon 
me. 

10 When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting : 
that was to my reproach. 

11 I made sackcloth also my garment: and I became a 
proverb to them. 

12 They that sit in the gate speak against me : and I 
was the song of the drunkards. 

13 But as for me, my prayer is unto thee, Lord, in an 
acceptable time : O God, in the multitude of thy mercy 
hear me, in the truth of thy salvation. 

14 Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink : let 
me be delivered from them that hate me, and out of the 
deep waters. 

15 Let not the waterflood overflow me, neither let the 
deep swallow me up : and let not the pit shut her mouth 
upon me. 

16 Hear me, Lord ; for thy loving-kindness is good : 
turn unto me according to the multitude of thy tender 
mercies. 

17 And hide not thy face from thy servant : for I am in 
trouble ; hear me speedily. 

18 Draw nigh unto my soul, and redeem it : deliver me 
because of mine enemies. 

19 Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and 
my dishonour : mine adversaries are all before thee. 

20 Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of 
heaviness : and I looked for some to take pity, but there 
was none ; and for comforters, but I found none. 

21 They gave me also gall for my meat: and in my thirst 
they gave me vinegar to drink. 

22 But I am poor and sorrowful: let thy salvation, O 
God, set me up on high. 

23 I will praise the name of God with a song: and will 
magnify him with thanksgiving. 

24 This also shall please the Lord : better than an ox or 
bullock that hath horns and hoofs. 

25 The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your 
heart shall live that seek God. 



SELECTION 60. 



253 



26 For the Lord heareth the poor: and despiseth not his 
prisoners. 

27 Let the heaven and earth praise him: the seas, and 
every thing that moveth therein. 

28 For God will save Zion, and will build the cities of 
Judah : that they may dwell there, and have it in posses- 
sion. 

29 The seed also of his servants shall inherit it: and they 
that love his name shall dwell therein. 



GLORY be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the 
Holy Ghost. 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 



U One of the first three Canticles may, if so desired, be sung at the 
beginning of Morning Service as the Opening Hymn. 

I. 

Venite, Extjltemus Domino. 

C\ COME, let us sing unto the Lord : let us heartily re- 
^ joice in the strength of our salvation. 

Let us come before His Presence with thanksgiving: and 
show ourselves glad in Him with psalms. 

For the Lord is a great God : and a great King above all 
gods. 

In His hand are all the corners of the earth: and the 
strength of the hills is His also. 

The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands prepared 
the dry land. 

O come, let us worship and fall down : and kneel before 
the Lord our Maker. 

For He is the Lord our God : and we are the people of 
His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. 

O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: let the 
whole earth stand in awe of Him. 

For He conieth, for He cometh to judge the earth: and 
with righteousness to judge the world, and the people with 
His truth. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 

II. 

Jubilate Deo. 

C\ BE joyful in the Lord, all ye lands: serve the Lord with 
^ gladness, and come before His Presence with a song. 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 255 



Be ye sure that the Lord He is God ; it is He that hath 
made us, and not we ourselves: we are His people, and 
the sheep of His pasture. 

O go your way into His gates with thanksgiving, and 
into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and 
speak good of His Name. 

For the Lord is gracious, His mercy is everlasting : and 
His truth endureth from generation to generation. 

Glory he to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



hi. 

L^tatus Sum. 

T WAS glad when they said unto me : Let us go into the 
house of the Lord. 

Our feet shall stand within thy gates : Jerusalem. 
Jerusalem is builded as a city: that is compact to- 
gether : 

Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the Lord : unto 
the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of 
the Lord. 

For there are set thrones of judgment : the thrones of the 
house of David. 

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem : they shall prosper that 
love thee. 

Peace be within thy walls: and prosperity within thy 
palaces. 

For my brethren and companions' sakes : I will now say, 
Peace be within thee. 

Because of the house of the Lord our God : I will seek 
thy good. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 



256 ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 



IV. 

Te Deum Laudamtjs. 

WE praise Thee, God: we acknowledge Thee to be the 
Lord. 

All the earth doth worship Thee : the Father everlasting. 

To Thee all Angels cry aloud : the Heavens, and all the 
Powers therein ; 

To Thee Cherubim and Seraphim : continually do cry, 

Holy, Holy, Holy: Lord God of Sabaoth; 

Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty: of Thy glory. 

The glorious company of the Apostles: praise Thee. 

The goodly fellowship of the Prophets: praise Thee. 

The noble army of Martyrs : praise Thee. 

The holy Church throughout all the world : doth acknow- 
ledge Thee ; 

The Father: of an infinite Majesty ; 

Thine adorable, true : and only Son ; 

Also the Holy Ghost : the Comforter. 

Thou art the King of Glory: O Christ. 

Thou art the everlasting Son : of the Father. 

When Thou tookest upon Thee to deliver man: Thou didst 
humble Thyself to be born of a Virgin. 

When Thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death: 
Thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers. 

Thou sittest at the right hand of God: in the glory of 
the Father. 

We believe that Thou shalt come : to be our Judge. 

We therefore pray Thee, help Thy servants: whom Thou 
hast redeemed with Thy precious blood. 

Make them to be numbered with Thy Saints: in glory 
everlasting. 

Lord, save Thy people: and bless Thine heritage. 
Govern them: and lift them up for ever. 
Day by day: we magnify Thee; 
And we worship Thy Name: ever, world without end. 
Vouchsafe, Lord : to keep us this day without sin. 
O Lord, have mercy upon us: have mercy upon us. 
Lord let Thy mercy be upon us: as our trust is in Thee. 
Lord, in Thee have I trusted: let me never be con- 
founded. 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 257 



V. 

Gloria in Excelsis. 

(TJ.LOIIY be to God on high: and on earth peace, good 
" will towards men. 

We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee: we 
glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great 
glory. 

O Lord God, heavenly King: God the Father Almighty. 

Lord, the only -begotten Son, Jesus Christ: O Lord 
God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, 

That takest away the sins of the world: have mercy 
upon us. 

Thou that takest away the sins of the world : receive our 
prayer. 

Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father : 
have mercy upon us. 

For Thou only art holy : Thou only art the Lord. 

Thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost: art most 
high in the glory of God the Father. Amen. 

VI. 

Benedicite, Omnia Opera Domini. 

r\ ALL ye Works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : praise 
^ Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

ye Angels of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Heavens, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and mag- 
nify Him for ever. 

O ye Waters that be above the firmament, bless ye the 
Lord: praise Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O all ye Powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord : praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

ye Sun and Moon, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Stars of heaven, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

ye Showers and Dew, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 



258 ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 



O ye Winds of God, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

ye Fire and Heat, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

ye Winter and Summer, bless ye the Lord: praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

ye Dews and Frosts, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

ye Frost and Cold, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

ye Ice and Snow, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, and 
magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Nights and Days, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Light and Darkness, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Lightnings and Clouds, bless ye the Lord: praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

let the Earth bless the Lord: yea, let it praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Mountains and Hills, bless ye the Lord: praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O all ye Green Things upon the earth, bless ye the Lord: 
praise Him, and magnify Him for ever, 

O ye Wells, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, and magnify 
Him for ever. 

O ye Seas and Floods, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Whales, and all that move in the waters, bless ye 
the Lord : praise Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O all ye Fowls of the air, bless ye the Lord: praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O all ye Beasts and Cattle, bless ye the Lord : praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Children of Men, bless ye the Lord : praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O let Israel bless the Lord: praise Him, and magnify 
Him for ever. 

ye Priests of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise Him, 
and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye Servants of the Lord, bless ye the Lord: praise 
Him, and magnify Him for ever. 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 259 



O ye Spirits and Souls of the Righteous, bless ye the 
Lord: praise Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

O ye holy and humble Men of heart, bless ye the Lord: 
praise Him, and magnify Him for ever. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 

VII. 

Magnificat. 

JI/TY soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath re- 
joiced in God my Saviour. 

For He hath regarded: the lowliness of His handmaiden. 

For behold, from henceforth: all generations shall call 
me blessed. 

For He that is mighty hath magnified me: and holy is 
His Name. 

And His mercy is on them that fear Him: throughout 
all generations. 

He hath showed strength with His arm : He hath scat- 
tered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 

He hath put down the mighty from their seat : and hath 
exalted the humble and meek. 

He hath filled the hungry with good things: and the 
rich He hath sent empty away. 

He remembering His mercy hath holpen His servant 
Israel : as He promised to our forefathers, Abraham and 
his seed, for ever. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son:,and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 

VIH. 
Benedictus. 



LESSED be the Lord God of Israel: for He hath visited 
and redeemed His people ; 



260 ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 



And hath raised up a mighty salvation for us : in the 
house of His servant David ; 

As He spake by the mouth of His holy Prophets : which 
have been since the world began ; 

That we should be saved from our enemies : and from 
the hand of all that hate us. 

To perform the mercy promised to our forefathers: and 
to remember His holy covenant ; 

To perform the oath which He sware to our forefather 
Abraham : that He would give us ; 

That we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies: 
might serve Him without fear ; 

In holiness and righteousness before Him: all the days 
of our life. 

And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the High- 
est : for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to pre- 
pare His ways; 

To give knowledge of salvation unto His people : for the 
remission of their sins, 

Through the tender mercy of our God: whereby the day- 
spring from on high hath visited us ; 

To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the 
shadow of death : and to guide our feet into the way of peace. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 

IX. 

Nunc Dimittis. 

T ORD, now lettest thou Thy servant depart in peace : ac- 
cording to Thy word. 

For mine eyes have seen: Thy salvation, 

Which Thou hast prepared : before the face of all people ; 

To be a light to lighten the Gentiles : and to be the glory 
of Thy people Israel. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son: and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 261 



X. 

Cantate Domino. 

SING unto the Lord a new song: for He hath done 
^ marvellous things. 

With His own right hand, and with His holy arm : hath 
He gotten Himself the victory. 

The Lord declared His salvation: His righteousness hath 
He openly showed in the sight of the heathen. 

He hath remembered His mercy and truth toward the 
house of Israel: and all the ends of the world have seen the 
salvation of our God. 

Show yourselves joyful unto the Lord, all ye lands: sing, 
rejoice, and give thanks. 

Praise the Lord upon the harp : sing to the harp with a 
psalm of thanksgiving. 

With trumpets also and shawms: O show yourselves 
joyful before the Lord, the King. 

Let the sea make a noise, and all that therein is: the 
round world, and they that dwell therein. 

Let the floods clap their hands, and let the hills be joyful 
together before the Lord: for He cometh to judge the 
earth. 

With righteousness shall He judge the world: and the 
people with equity. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be: 
world without end. Amen. 

XL 

BONUM EST CONFITERI. 

IT is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord : and to 
sing praises unto Thy Name, Most Highest ; 
To tell of Thy loving-kindness early in the morning: and 
of Thy truth in the night season ; 

Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the lute: 
upon a loud intsrument, and upon the harp. 
For Thou, Lord, hast made me glad through Thy works: 



262 ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 



and I will rejoice in giving praise for the operations of 
Thy hands. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 

xn. 

Benedic, Anima mea. 

T3RAISE the Lord, my soul: and all that is within me, 
- 1 - praise His holy Name. 

Praise the Lord, my soul: and forget not all His bene- 
fits : 

Who forgiveth all thy sin: and healeth all thine infirmi- 
ties ; 

Who saveth thy life from destruction: and crowneth 
thee with mercy and loving-kindness. 

praise the Lord, ye angels of His, ye that excel in 
strength: ye that fulfil His commandment, and hearken 
unto the voice of His word. 

O praise the Lord, all ye His hosts : ye servants of His 
that do His pleasure. 

speak good of the Lord, all ye works of His, in all 
places of His dominion: praise thou the Lord, O my soul. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



XIII. 

Deus Misereatur. 

GOD be merciful unto us, and bless us : and show us the 
light of His countenance, and be merciful unto us ; 
That Thy way may be known upon earth: Thy saving 
health among all nations. 

Let the people praise Thee, O God: yea, let all the 
people praise Thee. 

let the nations rejoice and be glad: for Thou shalt 



ANCIENT HYMNS AND CANTICLES. 263 



judge the folk righteously, and govern the nations upon 
earth. 

Let the people praise Thee, O God: yea, let all the 
people praise Thee. 

Then shall the earth bring forth her increase : and God, 
even our own God, shall give us His blessing. 

God shall bless us : and all the ends of the world shall 
fear Him. 

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy 
Ghost ; 

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : 
world without end. Amen. 



Electrotyped and printed by H . O. Houghton &> Co. 
Cambridge, Mass., U.S.A. 



MAY 3 190C 



